CHAPTER XXV—PRETTY FROCKS

CHAPTER XXV—PRETTY FROCKSBut Polly Haddon had not died. One very seldom does—of happiness. Some way the girls managed to get her inside the Hall and administer hot drinks and hot food and in a surprisingly short time she was herself again.Not quite herself, for she was beautified and transfigured with happiness into a very different Polly Haddon from the one the girls had known.Miss Walters was summoned and made her come into her own private rooms. Of course the girls went also, and while Mrs. Haddon was stretched luxuriously on a couch in Miss Walters’ sitting-room, Billie told how she had frightened the simpleton into confessing his guilt and restoring the stolen goods.Billie was so modest about her leading part in the affair that Laura was forced to interrupt occasionally, and, disregarding Billie’s frowns, add a bit of explanation here and there that enabled her audience to visualize the thing just as it had happened.The machinery model had been brought inside and deposited in one of the study halls, and now Miss Walters asked Mrs. Haddon what she wished done with it.“We can keep it here for you, in the big school safe,” she suggested, “or we can have it carried over to your house, just as you wish.”“Oh no, leave it here,” said Polly Haddon quickly. “I will notify that Philadelphia knitting company that the invention has been recovered, and if they still wish to buy it, it probably will not remain here long. Oh, how can I thank you all——” her voice broke, and for a little while all of them felt a bit uncomfortable while Polly Haddon sobbed out her happiness and gratitude.It was over at last, however, and the girls were free to go back to their dormitory and the curiosity of their friends.Here, perched on the bed with Connie and Vi, Laura gave a graphic account of everything just as it had happened to a sympathetic audience of some twenty girls.She rang Billie’s praises to such an extent that the poor girl tried to hide herself in an inconspicuous corner, only to be dragged forth into the limelight again by a couple of laughing and heartless maidens.“You get up there where you belong,” cried one of them, shoving Billie up into the center of the bed which was already over-crowded with giggling girls. “Don’t you know that you’re a real, honest-to-goodness heroine?”“And for the second time to-day,” drawled Rose Belser, her eyes fixed a little enviously upon Billie’s pretty, flushed face. “Wasn’t it enough to win the prize, without going and getting yourself in the limelightagain?”Laura and Vi flushed angrily, for there was a little malice under the question. But Billie took it all good-naturedly.“Well, I didn’t do it on purpose—not the last part, anyway,” she said.“We know you didn’t, honey,” said Connie, ruffling Billie’s dark curls fondly. “You’re just naturally talented.”“By the way,” asked Laura, after an interval of skylarking, “does anybody know what happened to Amanda?”“She was suspended,” replied one of the girls.“And I thought it was a pity she wasn’t expelled,” spoke up another.“Poor Eliza!” drawled Rose. “I wonder what she will do without her master.”“Does anybody know who won the second prize?” asked Laura carelessly.“What a queer question to ask,” said Caroline Brant, who had been dreaming about the thesis she was going to write and had hardly heard a word of the conversation. “Youdid, of course!”It took a little time for this to sink in, for Laura had long ago given up hope of winning a prize for herself. But when it did finally beat its way into her mind she straightway proceeded to turn the place upside down in her hilarity.She found Billie’s sewing basket, dumped out its contents, and turned it upside down on her head for a crown.Then she draped a bedspread about her shoulders, queen fashion, and two of her classmates caught up the dangling ends that formed a train.Then they marched through the halls crying, “Way for the queen!” and gathering a crowd of giggling girls as they went.“What’s it all about?”“Queen indeed! Just look at her with that workbasket on her head!”“They are having the sport because Laura took the second prize in that composition contest.”“Oh, that’s it, is it? Well, I’m glad they showed up Amanda—and Billie Bradley certainly deserved the first prize.”The merriment grew louder, and presently the crowd made Laura mount a stand and deliver what they called “an oration.”“Tell us about making linen dusters for the Laplanders,” suggested one girl.“Or overcoats for the heathens in Africa,” suggested another.“Or how to make sponge cake from live sponges.”“Or why Washington didn’t use submarines when his army crossed the Delaware.”“I can talk but I can’t make a speech,” declared Laura. “In other words, I could say something if I could only frame my speech, properly—that is——”“If she could only get her tongue to working,” broke in Vi, and at this the assembled girls roared.It was only when rumor said that Miss Walters was coming their way that the hilarious party broke up and scurried for home and safety.“Take off that ridiculous thing,” cried Billie, jerking at the bedspread, herself weak from laughing. “And give me back my work basket, woman, before Miss Walters catches you and sends you after Amanda.”“Goodness,” said Laura, meekly handing Billie her property, “do you think she would? It may suit Amanda fine to be suspended, but I’m more comfortable the way I am.”And so the time wore on with studies and lessons and fun until the girls woke up one day to find that the summer holidays were almost upon them.Mrs. Haddon had sold the knitting machinery model to the Philadelphia concern at a price that was a fortune to her.The little white cottage had been remodeled and furnished prettily, and Polly Haddon had grown prosperous and handsome and oh, so happy.But the most remarkable thing to the girls was the change in Mary and Isabel and Peter Haddon. The children, who had been such sorry little waifs in their poverty, had grown almost beautiful in the days of their prosperity. Polly Haddon’s pride in them and their pretty clothes was almost pathetic.The North Bend girls and Connie were often visitors at the little cottage, and sometimes the boys went with them on their visits and were treated to a dinner of waffles and maple syrup that, to quote Chet, “would make an Indian’s hair curl.”And now, as the girls realized how fast the time was flying, they conceived the idea of giving a party. Not a small party, but a real one with cake and ice-cream and snappers and everything.“I wonder,” breathed Vi daringly, “if Miss Walters would mind if we should ask a few of the boys—just a very few, you know.”“There would have to be enough to go around,” interposed Billie.“I should say so!” said Connie with emphasis. “Especially as Billie is sure to have at least two of them. I want to dance with Teddy and Paul Martinson once or twice myself, my dear,” she said, eyeing the laughing Billie sternly.“And I’m quite sure dear Rose will, too—especially Teddy,” murmured Laura, maliciously.They found that Miss Walters was quite willing to let them have the party and the boys, too—provided the latter did not stay too late—and then the plans began in earnest.They sent invitations to about twenty of the boys at the Academy and the invitations were accepted promptly and eagerly.About two days before the great event, the girls decorated the two big sitting-rooms on the ground floor which Miss Walters had said they could use, and when they had finished no ballroom ever looked prettier—even the girls said so.Then at last came the morning of the great day, then the afternoon and then—the evening—and time for the girls to dress.They had brought out their best party frocks for the occasion and the closest chums had compared colors carefully so that they would be sure not to “clash.” Billie was to wear pale green net with a touch of pink, Laura light blue, Connie had chosen a lovely rose pink that went well with her fluffy fairness, and Vi had decided on golden yellow that made her look like a queen. Rose Belser was dressed in an expensive black frock that was far too old for her but that set off her dark prettiness admirably.There was Nellie Bane in white, and a number of other girls were in pretty frocks of varied hues. All were flushed and laughing and excited, and their happiness made every one of them pretty.“Oh, aren’t I beautiful?” cried Laura with engaging frankness as she pirouetted before the mirror. Then she turned to Billie and hugged her rapturously. “And you’re gorgeous, honey,” she cried. “I see where we don’t get even a boy apiece to-night.”The boys arrived early. It was lucky that Billie could dance with only one boy at a time—or there might not have been “enough to go around.”“I say, Billie,” Teddy cried once, waltzing her over into a corner and gazing at her wonderingly, “I never knew you could look like that. What is it, anyway? This green and pink thing?” lifting a piece of filmy net gingerly between his thumb and finger.Billie looked up impishly in his face while one foot kept time with the music.“Don’t askme,” she said. “It’s because I’m so happy, I guess. Oh, come on, Teddy, let’s dance!”It was some time later that the three classmates happened to find themselves together and alone.“Desoited!” cried Laura dramatically. “Where’s yours, Billie?”“Gone to get me some ice-cream,” said Billie.“Wonderful,” cried Laura. “So has mine!”“And mine!” added Vi.They giggled happily for a minute and then Billie reached out and put an arm about each of her chums. She hugged them close, regardless of pretty frocks.“Girls,” she said contentedly, “I think I’m the very happiest girl in the world.”“Except me,” said Laura.“And me!” echoed Vi. “And to think——” she added, after they had contentedly watched the happy crowd for a few moments. “To think that in a few short weeks vacation will be here.”“Well,” said Laura decidedly, “if we have any more fun this summer than we’ve had this winter, we’ll have to gosome!”“We shall indeed,” said Billie, happily.THE END.BILLIE BRADLEY SERIESBy JANET D. WHEELER12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid1. BILLIE BRADLEY AND HER INHERITANCE,or The Queer Homestead at Cherry CornersBillie Bradley fell heir to an old homestead that was unoccupied and located far away in a lonely section of the country. How Billie went there, accompanied by some of her chums, and what queer things happened, go to make up a story no girl will want to miss.2. BILLIE BRADLEY AT THREE-TOWERS HALL,or Leading a Needed RebellionThree-Towers Hall was a boarding school for girls. For a short time after Billie arrived there all went well. But then the head of the school had to go on a long journey and she left the girls in charge of two teachers, sisters, who believed in severe discipline and in very, very plain food and little of it—and then there was a row! The girls wired for the head to come back—and all ended happily.3. BILLIE BRADLEY ON LIGHTHOUSE ISLAND,or The Mystery of the WreckOne of Billie’s friends owned a summer bungalow on Lighthouse Island, near the coast. The school girls made up a party and visited the Island. There was a storm and a wreck, and three little children were washed ashore. They could tell nothing of themselves, and Billie and her chums set to work to solve the mystery of their identity.4. BILLIE BRADLEY AND HER CLASSMATES,or The Secret of the Locked TowerBillie and her chums come to the rescue of several little children who have broken through the ice. There is the mystery of a lost invention, and also the dreaded mystery of the locked school tower.5. BILLIE BRADLEY AT TWIN LAKES,or Jolly Schoolgirls Afloat and AshoreA tale of outdoor adventure in which Billie and her chums have a great variety of adventures. They visit an artists’ colony and there fall in with a strange girl living with an old boatman who abuses her constantly. Billie befriended Hulda and the mystery surrounding the girl was finally cleared up.Send For Our Free Illustrated CatalogueTHE BARTON BOOKS FOR GIRLSBy MAY HOLLIS BARTON12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. With colored jacketPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaidMay Hollis Barton is a new writer for girls who is bound to win instant popularity. Her style is somewhat of a mixture of that of Louise M. Alcott and Mrs. L. T. Meade, but thoroughly up-to-date in plot and action. Clean tales that all girls will enjoy reading.1. THE GIRL FROM THE COUNTRY,or Laura Mayford’s City ExperiencesLaura was the oldest of five children and when daddy got sick she felt she must do something. She had a chance to try her luck in New York, and there the country girl fell in with many unusual experiences.2. THREE GIRL CHUMS AT LAUREL HALL,or The Mystery of the School by the LakeWhen the three chums arrived at the boarding school they found the other students in the grip of a most perplexing mystery. How this mystery was solved, and what good times the girls had, both in school and on the lake, go to make a story no girl would care to miss.3. NELL GRAYSON’S RANCHING DAYS,or A City Girl in the Great WestShowing how Nell, when she had a ranch girl visit her in Boston, thought her chum very green, but when Nell visited the ranch in the great West she found herself confronting many conditions of which she was totally ignorant. A stirring outdoor story.4. FOUR LITTLE WOMEN OF ROXBY,or The Queer Old Lady Who Lost Her WayFour sisters are keeping house and having trouble to make both ends meet. One day there wanders in from a stalled express train an old lady who cannot remember her identity. The girls take the old lady in, and, later, are much astonished to learn who she really is.5. PLAIN JANE AND PRETTY BETTY,or The Girl Who Won OutThe tale of two girls, one plain but sensible, the other pretty but vain. Unexpectedly both find they have to make their way in the world. Both have many trials and tribulations. A story of a country town and then a city.Send For Our Free Illustrated CatalogueTHE RUTH FIELDING SERIESBy ALICE B. EMERSON12mo. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaidRuth Fielding was an orphan and came to live with her miserly uncle. Her adventures and travels make stories that will hold the interest of every reader.Ruth Fielding is a character that will live in juvenile fiction.RUTH FIELDING OF THE RED MILLRUTH FIELDING AT BRIARWOODHALLRUTH FIELDING AT SNOW CAMPRUTH FIELDING AT LIGHTHOUSE POINTRUTH FIELDING AT SILVER RANCHRUTH FIELDING ON CLIFF ISLANDRUTH FIELDING AT SUNRISE FARMRUTH FIELDING AND THE GYPSIESRUTH FIELDING IN MOVING PICTURESRUTH FIELDING DOWN IN DIXIERUTH FIELDING AT COLLEGERUTH FIELDING IN THE SADDLERUTH FIELDING IN THE RED CROSSRUTH FIELDING AT THE WAR FRONTRUTH FIELDING HOMEWARD BOUNDRUTH FIELDING DOWN EASTRUTH FIELDING IN THE GREAT NORTHWESTRUTH FIELDING ON THE ST. LAWRENCERUTH FIELDING TREASURE HUNTINGRUTH FIELDING IN THE FAR NORTHRUTH FIELDING AT GOLDEN PASSRUTH FIELDING IN ALASKATHE BETTY GORDON SERIESBy ALICE B. EMERSON12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaidA series of stories by Alice B. Emerson which are bound to make this writer more popular than ever with her host of girl readers.1. BETTY GORDON AT BRAMBLE FARM,or The Mystery of a NobodyAt twelve Betty is left an orphan.2. BETTY GORDON IN WASHINGTON,or Strange Adventures in a Great CityBetty goes to the National Capitol to find her uncle and has several unusual adventures.3. BETTY GORDON IN THE LAND OF OIL,or The Farm That Was Worth a FortuneFrom Washington the scene is shifted to the great oil fields of our country. A splendid picture of the oil field operations of today.4. BETTY GORDON AT BOARDING SCHOOL,or The Treasure of Indian ChasmSeeking treasures of Indian Chasm makes interesting reading.5. BETTY GORDON AT MOUNTAIN CAMP,or The Mystery of Ida BellethorneAt Mountain Camp Betty found herself in the midst of a mystery involving a girl whom she had previously met in Washington.6. BETTY GORDON AT OCEAN PARK,or School Chums on the BoardwalkA glorious outing that Betty and her chums never forgot.7. BETTY GORDON AND HER SCHOOL CHUMS,or Bringing the Rebels to TermsRebellious students, disliked teachers and mysterious robberies make a fascinating story.8. BETTY GORDON AT RAINBOW RANCH,or Cowboy Joe’s SecretBetty and her chums have a grand time in the saddle.9. BETTY GORDON IN MEXICAN WILDS,or The Secret of the MountainsBetty receives a fake telegram and finds both Bob and herself held for ransom in a mountain cave.Send For Our Free Illustrated CatalogueTHE RADIO GIRLS SERIESBY MARGARET PENROSE12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaidA new and up-to-date series taking in the activities of several bright girls who become interested in radio. The stories tell of thrilling exploits, out-door life and the great part the Radio plays in the adventures of the girls and in solving their mysteries. Fascinating books that girls of all ages will want to read.1. THE RADIO GIRLS OF ROSELAWN,or A Strange Message from the AirShowing how Jessie Norwood and her chums became interested in radiophoning, how they gave a concert for a worthy local charity, and how they received a sudden and unexpected call for help out of the air. A girl wanted as witness in a celebrated law case disappears, and the radio girls go to the rescue.2. THE RADIO GIRLS ON THE PROGRAM,or Singing and Reciting at the Sending StationWhen listening in on a thrilling recitation or a superb concert number who of us has not longed to “look behind the scenes” to see how it was done? The girls had made the acquaintance of a sending station manager and in this volume are permitted to get on the program, much to their delight. A tale full of action and fun.3. THE RADIO GIRLS ON STATION ISLAND,or The Wireless from the Steam YachtIn this volume the girls travel to the seashore and put in a vacation on an island where is located a big radio sending station. The big brother of one of the girls owns a steam yacht and while out with a pleasure party those on the island receive word by radio that the yacht is on fire. A tale thrilling to the last page.4. THE RADIO GIRLS AT FOREST LODGE,or The Strange Hut in the SwampThe Radio Girls spend several weeks on the shores of a beautiful lake and with their radio get news of a great forest fire. It also aids them in rounding up some undesirable folks who occupy the strange hut in the swamp.Send For Our Free Illustrated CatalogueTHE GIRL SCOUT SERIESBy LILIAN GARIS12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaidThe highest ideals of girlhood as advocated by the foremost organisations of America form the background for these stories and while unobtrusive there is a message in every volume.1. THE GIRL SCOUT PIONEERS,or Winning the First B. C.A story of the True Tred Troop in a Pennsylvania town. Two runaway girls, who want to see the city, are reclaimed through troop influence. The story is correct in scout detail.2. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT BELLAIRE,or Maid Mary’s AwakeningThe story of a timid little maid who is afraid to take part in other girls’ activities, while working nobly alone for high ideals. How she was discovered by the Bellaire Troop and came into her own as “Maid Mary” makes a fascinating story.3. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT SEA CREST,or The Wig Wag RescueLuna Land, a little island by the sea, is wrapt in a mysterious seclusion, and Kitty Scuttle, a grotesque figure, succeeds in keeping all others at bay until the Girl Scouts come.4. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT CAMP COMALONG,or Peg of Tamarack HillsThe girls of Bobolink Troop spend their summer on the shores of Lake Hocomo. Their discovery of Peg, the mysterious rider, and the clearing up of her remarkable adventures afford a vigorous plot.5. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT ROCKY LEDGE,or Nora’s Real VacationNora Blair is the pampered daughter of a frivolous mother. Her dislike for the rugged life of Girl Scouts is eventually changed to appreciation, when the rescue of little Lucia, a woodland waif, becomes a problem for the girls to solve.Send For Our Free Illustrated CatalogueTHE LINGER-NOT SERIESBy AGNES MILLER12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaidThis new series of girls’ books is in a new style of story writing. The interest is in knowing the girls and seeing them solve the problems that develop their character. Incidentally, a great deal of historical information is imparted.1. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THE MYSTERY HOUSE,or The Story of Nine Adventurous GirlsHow the Linger-Not girls met and formed their club seems commonplace, but this writer makes it fascinating, and how they made their club serve a great purpose continues the interest to the end, and introduces a new type of girlhood.2. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THE VALLEY FEUD,or The Great West Point ChainThe Linger-Not girls had no thought of becoming mixed up with feuds or mysteries, but their habit of being useful soon entangled them in some surprising adventures that turned out happily for all, and made the valley better because of their visit.3. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THEIR GOLDEN QUEST,or The Log of the Ocean MonarchFor a club of girls to become involved in a mystery leading back into the times of the California gold-rush, seems unnatural until the reader sees how it happened, and how the girls helped one of their friends to come into her rightful name and inheritance, forms a fine story.4. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THE WHISPERING CHARMS,or The Secret from Old AlaskaWhether engrossed in thrilling adventures in the Far North or occupied with quiet home duties, the Linger-Not girls could work unitedly to solve a colorful mystery in a way that interpreted American freedom to a sad young stranger, and brought happiness to her and to themselves.Send For Our Free Illustrated CatalogueTHE CURLYTOPS SERIESBy HOWARD R. GARISAuthor of the famous “Bedtime Animal Stories”12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid1. THE CURLYTOPS AT CHERRY FARM,or Vacation Days in the CountryA tale of happy vacation days on a farm.2. THE CURLYTOPS ON STAR ISLAND,or Camping out with GrandpaThe Curlytops were delighted when grandpa took them to camp on Star Island.3. THE CURLYTOPS SNOWED IN,or Grand Fun with Skates and SledsThe Curlytops, with their skates and sleds, on lakes and hills.4. THE CURLYTOPS AT UNCLE FRANK’S RANCH,or Little Folks on PonybackOut West on their uncle’s ranch they have a wonderful time.5. THE CURLYTOPS AT SILVER LAKE,or On the Water with Uncle BenThe Curlytops camp out on the shores of a beautiful lake.6. THE CURLYTOPS AND THEIR PETS,or Uncle Toby’s Strange CollectionAn old uncle leaves them to care for his collection of pets.7. THE CURLYTOPS AND THEIR PLAYMATES,or Jolly Times Through the HolidaysThey have great times with their uncle’s collection of animals.8. THE CURLYTOPS IN THE WOODS,or Fun at the Lumber CampExciting times in the forest for Curlytops.9. THE CURLYTOPS AT SUNSET BEACH,or What Was Found in the SandThe Curlytops have a fine time at the seashore, bathing, digging in the sand and pony-back riding.10. THE CURLYTOPS TOURING AROUND,or The Missing Photograph AlbumsThe Curlytops fall in with a moving picture company and get in some of the pictures.Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOKBILLIE BRADLEY AND HER CLASSMATES***

But Polly Haddon had not died. One very seldom does—of happiness. Some way the girls managed to get her inside the Hall and administer hot drinks and hot food and in a surprisingly short time she was herself again.

Not quite herself, for she was beautified and transfigured with happiness into a very different Polly Haddon from the one the girls had known.

Miss Walters was summoned and made her come into her own private rooms. Of course the girls went also, and while Mrs. Haddon was stretched luxuriously on a couch in Miss Walters’ sitting-room, Billie told how she had frightened the simpleton into confessing his guilt and restoring the stolen goods.

Billie was so modest about her leading part in the affair that Laura was forced to interrupt occasionally, and, disregarding Billie’s frowns, add a bit of explanation here and there that enabled her audience to visualize the thing just as it had happened.

The machinery model had been brought inside and deposited in one of the study halls, and now Miss Walters asked Mrs. Haddon what she wished done with it.

“We can keep it here for you, in the big school safe,” she suggested, “or we can have it carried over to your house, just as you wish.”

“Oh no, leave it here,” said Polly Haddon quickly. “I will notify that Philadelphia knitting company that the invention has been recovered, and if they still wish to buy it, it probably will not remain here long. Oh, how can I thank you all——” her voice broke, and for a little while all of them felt a bit uncomfortable while Polly Haddon sobbed out her happiness and gratitude.

It was over at last, however, and the girls were free to go back to their dormitory and the curiosity of their friends.

Here, perched on the bed with Connie and Vi, Laura gave a graphic account of everything just as it had happened to a sympathetic audience of some twenty girls.

She rang Billie’s praises to such an extent that the poor girl tried to hide herself in an inconspicuous corner, only to be dragged forth into the limelight again by a couple of laughing and heartless maidens.

“You get up there where you belong,” cried one of them, shoving Billie up into the center of the bed which was already over-crowded with giggling girls. “Don’t you know that you’re a real, honest-to-goodness heroine?”

“And for the second time to-day,” drawled Rose Belser, her eyes fixed a little enviously upon Billie’s pretty, flushed face. “Wasn’t it enough to win the prize, without going and getting yourself in the limelightagain?”

Laura and Vi flushed angrily, for there was a little malice under the question. But Billie took it all good-naturedly.

“Well, I didn’t do it on purpose—not the last part, anyway,” she said.

“We know you didn’t, honey,” said Connie, ruffling Billie’s dark curls fondly. “You’re just naturally talented.”

“By the way,” asked Laura, after an interval of skylarking, “does anybody know what happened to Amanda?”

“She was suspended,” replied one of the girls.

“And I thought it was a pity she wasn’t expelled,” spoke up another.

“Poor Eliza!” drawled Rose. “I wonder what she will do without her master.”

“Does anybody know who won the second prize?” asked Laura carelessly.

“What a queer question to ask,” said Caroline Brant, who had been dreaming about the thesis she was going to write and had hardly heard a word of the conversation. “Youdid, of course!”

It took a little time for this to sink in, for Laura had long ago given up hope of winning a prize for herself. But when it did finally beat its way into her mind she straightway proceeded to turn the place upside down in her hilarity.

She found Billie’s sewing basket, dumped out its contents, and turned it upside down on her head for a crown.

Then she draped a bedspread about her shoulders, queen fashion, and two of her classmates caught up the dangling ends that formed a train.

Then they marched through the halls crying, “Way for the queen!” and gathering a crowd of giggling girls as they went.

“What’s it all about?”

“Queen indeed! Just look at her with that workbasket on her head!”

“They are having the sport because Laura took the second prize in that composition contest.”

“Oh, that’s it, is it? Well, I’m glad they showed up Amanda—and Billie Bradley certainly deserved the first prize.”

The merriment grew louder, and presently the crowd made Laura mount a stand and deliver what they called “an oration.”

“Tell us about making linen dusters for the Laplanders,” suggested one girl.

“Or overcoats for the heathens in Africa,” suggested another.

“Or how to make sponge cake from live sponges.”

“Or why Washington didn’t use submarines when his army crossed the Delaware.”

“I can talk but I can’t make a speech,” declared Laura. “In other words, I could say something if I could only frame my speech, properly—that is——”

“If she could only get her tongue to working,” broke in Vi, and at this the assembled girls roared.

It was only when rumor said that Miss Walters was coming their way that the hilarious party broke up and scurried for home and safety.

“Take off that ridiculous thing,” cried Billie, jerking at the bedspread, herself weak from laughing. “And give me back my work basket, woman, before Miss Walters catches you and sends you after Amanda.”

“Goodness,” said Laura, meekly handing Billie her property, “do you think she would? It may suit Amanda fine to be suspended, but I’m more comfortable the way I am.”

And so the time wore on with studies and lessons and fun until the girls woke up one day to find that the summer holidays were almost upon them.

Mrs. Haddon had sold the knitting machinery model to the Philadelphia concern at a price that was a fortune to her.

The little white cottage had been remodeled and furnished prettily, and Polly Haddon had grown prosperous and handsome and oh, so happy.

But the most remarkable thing to the girls was the change in Mary and Isabel and Peter Haddon. The children, who had been such sorry little waifs in their poverty, had grown almost beautiful in the days of their prosperity. Polly Haddon’s pride in them and their pretty clothes was almost pathetic.

The North Bend girls and Connie were often visitors at the little cottage, and sometimes the boys went with them on their visits and were treated to a dinner of waffles and maple syrup that, to quote Chet, “would make an Indian’s hair curl.”

And now, as the girls realized how fast the time was flying, they conceived the idea of giving a party. Not a small party, but a real one with cake and ice-cream and snappers and everything.

“I wonder,” breathed Vi daringly, “if Miss Walters would mind if we should ask a few of the boys—just a very few, you know.”

“There would have to be enough to go around,” interposed Billie.

“I should say so!” said Connie with emphasis. “Especially as Billie is sure to have at least two of them. I want to dance with Teddy and Paul Martinson once or twice myself, my dear,” she said, eyeing the laughing Billie sternly.

“And I’m quite sure dear Rose will, too—especially Teddy,” murmured Laura, maliciously.

They found that Miss Walters was quite willing to let them have the party and the boys, too—provided the latter did not stay too late—and then the plans began in earnest.

They sent invitations to about twenty of the boys at the Academy and the invitations were accepted promptly and eagerly.

About two days before the great event, the girls decorated the two big sitting-rooms on the ground floor which Miss Walters had said they could use, and when they had finished no ballroom ever looked prettier—even the girls said so.

Then at last came the morning of the great day, then the afternoon and then—the evening—and time for the girls to dress.

They had brought out their best party frocks for the occasion and the closest chums had compared colors carefully so that they would be sure not to “clash.” Billie was to wear pale green net with a touch of pink, Laura light blue, Connie had chosen a lovely rose pink that went well with her fluffy fairness, and Vi had decided on golden yellow that made her look like a queen. Rose Belser was dressed in an expensive black frock that was far too old for her but that set off her dark prettiness admirably.

There was Nellie Bane in white, and a number of other girls were in pretty frocks of varied hues. All were flushed and laughing and excited, and their happiness made every one of them pretty.

“Oh, aren’t I beautiful?” cried Laura with engaging frankness as she pirouetted before the mirror. Then she turned to Billie and hugged her rapturously. “And you’re gorgeous, honey,” she cried. “I see where we don’t get even a boy apiece to-night.”

The boys arrived early. It was lucky that Billie could dance with only one boy at a time—or there might not have been “enough to go around.”

“I say, Billie,” Teddy cried once, waltzing her over into a corner and gazing at her wonderingly, “I never knew you could look like that. What is it, anyway? This green and pink thing?” lifting a piece of filmy net gingerly between his thumb and finger.

Billie looked up impishly in his face while one foot kept time with the music.

“Don’t askme,” she said. “It’s because I’m so happy, I guess. Oh, come on, Teddy, let’s dance!”

It was some time later that the three classmates happened to find themselves together and alone.

“Desoited!” cried Laura dramatically. “Where’s yours, Billie?”

“Gone to get me some ice-cream,” said Billie.

“Wonderful,” cried Laura. “So has mine!”

“And mine!” added Vi.

They giggled happily for a minute and then Billie reached out and put an arm about each of her chums. She hugged them close, regardless of pretty frocks.

“Girls,” she said contentedly, “I think I’m the very happiest girl in the world.”

“Except me,” said Laura.

“And me!” echoed Vi. “And to think——” she added, after they had contentedly watched the happy crowd for a few moments. “To think that in a few short weeks vacation will be here.”

“Well,” said Laura decidedly, “if we have any more fun this summer than we’ve had this winter, we’ll have to gosome!”

“We shall indeed,” said Billie, happily.

THE END.

BILLIE BRADLEY SERIESBy JANET D. WHEELER12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

BILLIE BRADLEY SERIES

By JANET D. WHEELER

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

1. BILLIE BRADLEY AND HER INHERITANCE,or The Queer Homestead at Cherry Corners

Billie Bradley fell heir to an old homestead that was unoccupied and located far away in a lonely section of the country. How Billie went there, accompanied by some of her chums, and what queer things happened, go to make up a story no girl will want to miss.

2. BILLIE BRADLEY AT THREE-TOWERS HALL,or Leading a Needed Rebellion

Three-Towers Hall was a boarding school for girls. For a short time after Billie arrived there all went well. But then the head of the school had to go on a long journey and she left the girls in charge of two teachers, sisters, who believed in severe discipline and in very, very plain food and little of it—and then there was a row! The girls wired for the head to come back—and all ended happily.

3. BILLIE BRADLEY ON LIGHTHOUSE ISLAND,or The Mystery of the Wreck

One of Billie’s friends owned a summer bungalow on Lighthouse Island, near the coast. The school girls made up a party and visited the Island. There was a storm and a wreck, and three little children were washed ashore. They could tell nothing of themselves, and Billie and her chums set to work to solve the mystery of their identity.

4. BILLIE BRADLEY AND HER CLASSMATES,or The Secret of the Locked Tower

Billie and her chums come to the rescue of several little children who have broken through the ice. There is the mystery of a lost invention, and also the dreaded mystery of the locked school tower.

5. BILLIE BRADLEY AT TWIN LAKES,or Jolly Schoolgirls Afloat and Ashore

A tale of outdoor adventure in which Billie and her chums have a great variety of adventures. They visit an artists’ colony and there fall in with a strange girl living with an old boatman who abuses her constantly. Billie befriended Hulda and the mystery surrounding the girl was finally cleared up.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

THE BARTON BOOKS FOR GIRLSBy MAY HOLLIS BARTON12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. With colored jacketPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE BARTON BOOKS FOR GIRLS

By MAY HOLLIS BARTON

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. With colored jacket

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

May Hollis Barton is a new writer for girls who is bound to win instant popularity. Her style is somewhat of a mixture of that of Louise M. Alcott and Mrs. L. T. Meade, but thoroughly up-to-date in plot and action. Clean tales that all girls will enjoy reading.

1. THE GIRL FROM THE COUNTRY,or Laura Mayford’s City Experiences

Laura was the oldest of five children and when daddy got sick she felt she must do something. She had a chance to try her luck in New York, and there the country girl fell in with many unusual experiences.

2. THREE GIRL CHUMS AT LAUREL HALL,or The Mystery of the School by the Lake

When the three chums arrived at the boarding school they found the other students in the grip of a most perplexing mystery. How this mystery was solved, and what good times the girls had, both in school and on the lake, go to make a story no girl would care to miss.

3. NELL GRAYSON’S RANCHING DAYS,or A City Girl in the Great West

Showing how Nell, when she had a ranch girl visit her in Boston, thought her chum very green, but when Nell visited the ranch in the great West she found herself confronting many conditions of which she was totally ignorant. A stirring outdoor story.

4. FOUR LITTLE WOMEN OF ROXBY,or The Queer Old Lady Who Lost Her Way

Four sisters are keeping house and having trouble to make both ends meet. One day there wanders in from a stalled express train an old lady who cannot remember her identity. The girls take the old lady in, and, later, are much astonished to learn who she really is.

5. PLAIN JANE AND PRETTY BETTY,or The Girl Who Won Out

The tale of two girls, one plain but sensible, the other pretty but vain. Unexpectedly both find they have to make their way in the world. Both have many trials and tribulations. A story of a country town and then a city.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

THE RUTH FIELDING SERIESBy ALICE B. EMERSON12mo. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE RUTH FIELDING SERIES

By ALICE B. EMERSON

12mo. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

Ruth Fielding was an orphan and came to live with her miserly uncle. Her adventures and travels make stories that will hold the interest of every reader.

Ruth Fielding is a character that will live in juvenile fiction.

RUTH FIELDING OF THE RED MILL

RUTH FIELDING AT BRIARWOODHALL

RUTH FIELDING AT SNOW CAMP

RUTH FIELDING AT LIGHTHOUSE POINT

RUTH FIELDING AT SILVER RANCH

RUTH FIELDING ON CLIFF ISLAND

RUTH FIELDING AT SUNRISE FARM

RUTH FIELDING AND THE GYPSIES

RUTH FIELDING IN MOVING PICTURES

RUTH FIELDING DOWN IN DIXIE

RUTH FIELDING AT COLLEGE

RUTH FIELDING IN THE SADDLE

RUTH FIELDING IN THE RED CROSS

RUTH FIELDING AT THE WAR FRONT

RUTH FIELDING HOMEWARD BOUND

RUTH FIELDING DOWN EAST

RUTH FIELDING IN THE GREAT NORTHWEST

RUTH FIELDING ON THE ST. LAWRENCE

RUTH FIELDING TREASURE HUNTING

RUTH FIELDING IN THE FAR NORTH

RUTH FIELDING AT GOLDEN PASS

RUTH FIELDING IN ALASKA

THE BETTY GORDON SERIESBy ALICE B. EMERSON12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE BETTY GORDON SERIES

By ALICE B. EMERSON

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

A series of stories by Alice B. Emerson which are bound to make this writer more popular than ever with her host of girl readers.

1. BETTY GORDON AT BRAMBLE FARM,or The Mystery of a Nobody

At twelve Betty is left an orphan.

2. BETTY GORDON IN WASHINGTON,or Strange Adventures in a Great City

Betty goes to the National Capitol to find her uncle and has several unusual adventures.

3. BETTY GORDON IN THE LAND OF OIL,or The Farm That Was Worth a Fortune

From Washington the scene is shifted to the great oil fields of our country. A splendid picture of the oil field operations of today.

4. BETTY GORDON AT BOARDING SCHOOL,or The Treasure of Indian Chasm

Seeking treasures of Indian Chasm makes interesting reading.

5. BETTY GORDON AT MOUNTAIN CAMP,or The Mystery of Ida Bellethorne

At Mountain Camp Betty found herself in the midst of a mystery involving a girl whom she had previously met in Washington.

6. BETTY GORDON AT OCEAN PARK,or School Chums on the Boardwalk

A glorious outing that Betty and her chums never forgot.

7. BETTY GORDON AND HER SCHOOL CHUMS,or Bringing the Rebels to Terms

Rebellious students, disliked teachers and mysterious robberies make a fascinating story.

8. BETTY GORDON AT RAINBOW RANCH,or Cowboy Joe’s Secret

Betty and her chums have a grand time in the saddle.

9. BETTY GORDON IN MEXICAN WILDS,or The Secret of the Mountains

Betty receives a fake telegram and finds both Bob and herself held for ransom in a mountain cave.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

THE RADIO GIRLS SERIESBY MARGARET PENROSE12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE RADIO GIRLS SERIES

BY MARGARET PENROSE

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

A new and up-to-date series taking in the activities of several bright girls who become interested in radio. The stories tell of thrilling exploits, out-door life and the great part the Radio plays in the adventures of the girls and in solving their mysteries. Fascinating books that girls of all ages will want to read.

1. THE RADIO GIRLS OF ROSELAWN,or A Strange Message from the Air

Showing how Jessie Norwood and her chums became interested in radiophoning, how they gave a concert for a worthy local charity, and how they received a sudden and unexpected call for help out of the air. A girl wanted as witness in a celebrated law case disappears, and the radio girls go to the rescue.

2. THE RADIO GIRLS ON THE PROGRAM,or Singing and Reciting at the Sending Station

When listening in on a thrilling recitation or a superb concert number who of us has not longed to “look behind the scenes” to see how it was done? The girls had made the acquaintance of a sending station manager and in this volume are permitted to get on the program, much to their delight. A tale full of action and fun.

3. THE RADIO GIRLS ON STATION ISLAND,or The Wireless from the Steam Yacht

In this volume the girls travel to the seashore and put in a vacation on an island where is located a big radio sending station. The big brother of one of the girls owns a steam yacht and while out with a pleasure party those on the island receive word by radio that the yacht is on fire. A tale thrilling to the last page.

4. THE RADIO GIRLS AT FOREST LODGE,or The Strange Hut in the Swamp

The Radio Girls spend several weeks on the shores of a beautiful lake and with their radio get news of a great forest fire. It also aids them in rounding up some undesirable folks who occupy the strange hut in the swamp.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

THE GIRL SCOUT SERIESBy LILIAN GARIS12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE GIRL SCOUT SERIES

By LILIAN GARIS

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

The highest ideals of girlhood as advocated by the foremost organisations of America form the background for these stories and while unobtrusive there is a message in every volume.

1. THE GIRL SCOUT PIONEERS,or Winning the First B. C.

A story of the True Tred Troop in a Pennsylvania town. Two runaway girls, who want to see the city, are reclaimed through troop influence. The story is correct in scout detail.

2. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT BELLAIRE,or Maid Mary’s Awakening

The story of a timid little maid who is afraid to take part in other girls’ activities, while working nobly alone for high ideals. How she was discovered by the Bellaire Troop and came into her own as “Maid Mary” makes a fascinating story.

3. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT SEA CREST,or The Wig Wag Rescue

Luna Land, a little island by the sea, is wrapt in a mysterious seclusion, and Kitty Scuttle, a grotesque figure, succeeds in keeping all others at bay until the Girl Scouts come.

4. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT CAMP COMALONG,or Peg of Tamarack Hills

The girls of Bobolink Troop spend their summer on the shores of Lake Hocomo. Their discovery of Peg, the mysterious rider, and the clearing up of her remarkable adventures afford a vigorous plot.

5. THE GIRL SCOUTS AT ROCKY LEDGE,or Nora’s Real Vacation

Nora Blair is the pampered daughter of a frivolous mother. Her dislike for the rugged life of Girl Scouts is eventually changed to appreciation, when the rescue of little Lucia, a woodland waif, becomes a problem for the girls to solve.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

THE LINGER-NOT SERIESBy AGNES MILLER12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE LINGER-NOT SERIES

By AGNES MILLER

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

This new series of girls’ books is in a new style of story writing. The interest is in knowing the girls and seeing them solve the problems that develop their character. Incidentally, a great deal of historical information is imparted.

1. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THE MYSTERY HOUSE,or The Story of Nine Adventurous Girls

How the Linger-Not girls met and formed their club seems commonplace, but this writer makes it fascinating, and how they made their club serve a great purpose continues the interest to the end, and introduces a new type of girlhood.

2. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THE VALLEY FEUD,or The Great West Point Chain

The Linger-Not girls had no thought of becoming mixed up with feuds or mysteries, but their habit of being useful soon entangled them in some surprising adventures that turned out happily for all, and made the valley better because of their visit.

3. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THEIR GOLDEN QUEST,or The Log of the Ocean Monarch

For a club of girls to become involved in a mystery leading back into the times of the California gold-rush, seems unnatural until the reader sees how it happened, and how the girls helped one of their friends to come into her rightful name and inheritance, forms a fine story.

4. THE LINGER-NOTS AND THE WHISPERING CHARMS,or The Secret from Old Alaska

Whether engrossed in thrilling adventures in the Far North or occupied with quiet home duties, the Linger-Not girls could work unitedly to solve a colorful mystery in a way that interpreted American freedom to a sad young stranger, and brought happiness to her and to themselves.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

THE CURLYTOPS SERIESBy HOWARD R. GARISAuthor of the famous “Bedtime Animal Stories”12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colorsPrice per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

THE CURLYTOPS SERIES

By HOWARD R. GARIS

Author of the famous “Bedtime Animal Stories”

12mo. Cloth. Illustrated. Jacket in full colors

Price per volume, 65 cents, postpaid

1. THE CURLYTOPS AT CHERRY FARM,or Vacation Days in the Country

A tale of happy vacation days on a farm.

2. THE CURLYTOPS ON STAR ISLAND,or Camping out with Grandpa

The Curlytops were delighted when grandpa took them to camp on Star Island.

3. THE CURLYTOPS SNOWED IN,or Grand Fun with Skates and Sleds

The Curlytops, with their skates and sleds, on lakes and hills.

4. THE CURLYTOPS AT UNCLE FRANK’S RANCH,or Little Folks on Ponyback

Out West on their uncle’s ranch they have a wonderful time.

5. THE CURLYTOPS AT SILVER LAKE,or On the Water with Uncle Ben

The Curlytops camp out on the shores of a beautiful lake.

6. THE CURLYTOPS AND THEIR PETS,or Uncle Toby’s Strange Collection

An old uncle leaves them to care for his collection of pets.

7. THE CURLYTOPS AND THEIR PLAYMATES,or Jolly Times Through the Holidays

They have great times with their uncle’s collection of animals.

8. THE CURLYTOPS IN THE WOODS,or Fun at the Lumber Camp

Exciting times in the forest for Curlytops.

9. THE CURLYTOPS AT SUNSET BEACH,or What Was Found in the Sand

The Curlytops have a fine time at the seashore, bathing, digging in the sand and pony-back riding.

10. THE CURLYTOPS TOURING AROUND,or The Missing Photograph Albums

The Curlytops fall in with a moving picture company and get in some of the pictures.

Send For Our Free Illustrated Catalogue

*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOKBILLIE BRADLEY AND HER CLASSMATES***

Back to Index Next