The day came for the grand ball, and during breakfast the ladies discussed the important question of bouquets; from that the conversation changed to flowers.

"There are so many of them," said Valentine, "and they are all so beautiful, I am always at a loss which to choose." "I should never hesitate a moment," said Ronald, laughingly.

"You will accuse me, perhaps of being sentimental, but I must give preference to the white lily-bells.

Lilies of the valley are the fairest flowers that grow." Lady Earle overheard the remark; no one else appeared to notice it, and she was not much surprised when Valentine entered the ball room to see white lilies in her fair hair, and a bouquet of the same flowers, half-shrouded by green leaves, in her hand.
Many eyes turned admiringly upon the calm, stately beauty and her white flowers.

Ronald saw them.