There are only nine of us so far, and we've waited ever so long to choose a tenth.

I hope you appreciate the privilege ?" "I do indeed!" "You're ready to take the vow?
Then the initiation may proceed.
Sword-bearers, guard the door, please." There was a Masonic quality about the proceedings.

Two dark figures, armed with rulers, placed themselves at the threshold, prepared to settle all intruders, and to preserve the absolute secrecy of the ceremony.
"Will you give your word of honor to be a loyal member of the Sorority of Camellia Buds, and never to do a dirty trick so long as you remain at this school ?" asked the President.
"I promise!" replied Irene.
At that somebody switched on the electric light, and the members, pulling off their black masks, disclosed their laughing faces.
"You stood it A-1.

I was quite prepared for you to start hysterics and had the sal volatile bottle ready right here," chirruped Delia gayly.
"We call it our 'strength of mind' test," explained President Agnes, blowing out the guttering candles.
"If I _had_ screamed what would have happened ?" inquired Irene.
"Probation for another week till you got your nerves.

We'd a business with Sheila just at first; she's rather fluttersome.