It was capped by a monster bouquet of artificial orchids in _papier-mache,_ which reached twenty feet into the air.

The three cousins had their gowns especially designed for the occasion.

Beth represented a lily, Louise a Gold-of-Ophir rose, and Patricia a pansy.
The big ball room had been turned over to the society people several days in advance, that the elaborate preparations might be completed in time, and during this period groups of busy, energetic young folks gathered by day and in the evenings, decorating, flirting, rehearsing the fancy dances, and amusing themselves generally.
Arthur Weldon was there to assist Uncle John's nieces; but his pleasure was somewhat marred by the persistent presence of Charlie Mershone, who, having called once or twice upon Louise, felt at liberty to attach himself to her party.

The ferocious looks of his rival were ignored by this designing young man and he had no hesitation in interrupting a _tete-a-tete_ to monopolize the girl for himself.
Louise was amused, thinking it fun to worry Arthur by flirting mildly with Mr.Mershone, for whom she cared not a jot.

Both Patsy and Beth took occasion to remonstrate with her for this folly, for having known Weldon for a long time and journeyed with him through a part of Europe, they naturally espoused his cause, liking him as much as they intuitively disliked Mershone.
One evening Arthur, his patience well-nigh exhausted, talked seriously with Louise.
"This fellow Mershone," said he, "is a bad egg, a despicable son of a decadent family.