"Nice, pretty laces.
Handiwork of the humble peasants for the grand lady.

Accept,--please." With bows and curtseys, Elise opened the basket and placed it at Mona's feet.
Delightedly, Mona examined the contents, and at each gift a chorus of exclamations went up from all the admiring throng.
Patty's offering was a tablecloth of Filet Antique and Venetian embroidery, and was among the most beautiful in the lot.
Elise gave a berthe of rose point, and Nan a Duchesse lace fan.

But most of the gifts were of a simpler nature, and dainty boudoir pillows, table scarfs, bags, caps, and handkerchiefs made up the filmy shower and delighted the heart of the recipient.
Mona was radiant with joy.

Although a pampered favourite of fortune, she was especially fond of receiving gifts, and she loved every individual lace confection and warmly thanked the donors.
"The things are heavenly, girls," she cried; "perfectly darling, every one of them! I can't thank you enough, but my heart is just overflowing with honest-to-goodness gratitude.

Oh, I _do_ love 'em so!" and gathering the whole lot in her arms, she rocked back and forth in ecstasy.