No teacher was present, but there was an air of general expectancy, as if the coming of somebody were awaited.

To the pupils at The Woodlands this night's ceremony was a very special occasion, for it was the autumn reunion of the Camp-fire League, an organization which, originally of American birth, had been introduced at the instigation of Miss Teddington, and had taken great root in the school.

Any girl was eligible as a candidate, but before she could gain admission to even the initial rank she had to prove herself worthy of the honour of membership, and pass successfully through her novitiate.
The organizer and leader of the branch which to-night was to celebrate its third anniversary was a certain Mrs.Arnold, a charming young American lady who lived in the neighbourhood.

She had been an enthusiastic supporter of the League in Pennsylvania before her marriage, and was delighted to pass on its traditions to British schoolgirls.

Her winsome personality made her a prime favourite at The Woodlands, where her influence was stronger even than she imagined.