"It strikes me that your social stars are mighty few in the broad firmament of humanity." "But they're stars, for all that, dear," said Uncle John, smiling at her with a hint of approval in his glance, yet picking up the argument; "and they look mighty big and bright to the crowd below.

It's quite natural.
You can't keep individuals from gaining distinction, even in America.
There are few generals in an army, for instance; and they're 'man-made'; but that's no reason the generals ain't entitled to our admiration." "Let's admire 'em, then--from a distance," retorted the Major, realizing the military simile was employed to win his sympathy.
"Certain things, my dear Major, are naturally dear to a girl's heart," continued Uncle John, musingly; "and we who are not girls have no right to condemn their natural longings.

Girls love dancing, pink teas and fudge-parties, and where can they find 'em in all their perfection but in high society?
Girls love admiration and flirtations--you do, my dears; you can't deny it--and the male society swells have the most time to devote to such things.

Girls love pretty dresses--" "Oh, Uncle! you've hit the nail on the head now," exclaimed Patsy, laughing.

"We must all have new gowns for this reception, and as we're to assist Miss Von Taer the dresses must harmonize, so to speak, and--and--" "And be quite suited to the occasion," broke in Louise; "and--" "And wear our lives out with innumerable fittings," concluded Beth, gloomily.
"But why new dresses ?" demanded the Major.