THE FLY IN THE BROTH Diana was an experienced entertainer and under her skillful supervision the reception proved eminently successful.

Nor had she cause to be ashamed of the three _protegees_ she presented to society, since capable _modistes_ had supplemented their girlish charms and freshness with costumes pertinent to the occasion.

Perhaps Patsy's chubby form looked a little "dumpish" in her party gown, for some of Diana's female guests regarded her with quiet amusement and bored tolerance, while the same critical posse was amazed and envious at Beth's superb beauty and stately bearing.

After all, it was Louise who captured the woman contingency and scored the greatest success; for her appearance was not only dainty and attractive but she was so perfectly self-possessed and responsive and bore herself so admirably under the somewhat trying; circumstances of a debut that she won the cordial goodwill of all whom she encountered.

The hostess was elaborately gowned in white pompadour satin, trimmed with white chiffon and embroidered in pink roses and pearls.