ARLINE MAKES THE BEST OF A BAD MATTER "What shall we do for our eight girls this year ?" asked Grace reflectively of Arline Thayer.

It was barely two weeks until Christmas and the two girls had decided to spend their half holiday in doing the Overton stores.
"I know the stock better than the saleswomen themselves do," chuckled Arline, "but it is great fun to go on exploring expeditions and watch other people buy the things.

Of course, I always buy something, too, unless I am deep in that state of temporary poverty that lies in wait for me at the end of every month." "Of course you do," agreed Grace, with an answering chuckle.

"Even though it is a hat and you feel obliged to dispose of it before going home, so that the Morton House girls won't laugh at you." "Who told you about it ?" asked Arline in a half-vexed tone.
"You told me, don't you remember ?" asked Grace.
"Oh, yes, of course.

Wasn't I a goose ?" "Thank you," bowed Grace mockingly.
"Oh, I don't mean because I told you," apologized Arline hastily.