The Marrables have come here with an invitation.
Guess, you darling--guess what they're going to give at Evergreen Lodge!" "A ball!" said Mr.Vanstone, without a moment's hesitation.
"Private Theatricals!!!" cried Magdalen, her clear young voice ringing through the conservatory like a bell; her loose sleeves falling back and showing her round white arms to the dimpled elbows, as she clapped her hands ecstatically in the air.

"'The Rivals' is the play, papa--'The Rivals,' by the famous what's-his-name--and they want ME to act! The one thing in the whole universe that I long to do most.

It all depends on you.

Mamma shakes her head; and Miss Garth looks daggers; and Norah's as sulky as usual--but if you say Yes, they must all three give way and let me do as I like.

Say Yes," she pleaded, nestling softly up to her father, and pressing her lips with a fond gentleness to his ear, as she whispered the next words.