116 MADGE’S MISTAKE.

gentlemen, your father dislikes anything
showy or gay.”

“Yes, I must say,” says Mother’s gentle
voice, “that Tiny is always quietly and well
dressed, and I have heard Mr. Erickson speak
of it more than once. It was a great pity
Freda was so foolish. I cannot think why
she takes up these silly notions.”

“Tt is just a little freak, dear Mrs. Erick-
son,” replies Miss M.; “she will very soon
leave it off when she sees how ridiculous it
looks in others; this little contretemps of to-
day will make some impression, I have no
doubt.”

“TfI had known that I should be chosen
when I put on this dress, I'd have dressed
myself in all the colours of the rainbow
instead,” I grumble aside to Gip; “you and
Miss M. will have the best of it after all.”

“T don’t sce that altogether,” replies Gip;
“TI shall only be one of the school-room
girls, but you will be one of the Miss Ericksons
to-day.”

“Well, I shall not find very much pleasure