lovely that mamma declared she needed nothing more. But Marie
insisted that the grand effect would be ruined without the garland
among the sunshiny hair. Belle had time now to be anxious, and
waited with growing impatience for the finishing touch to her
charming toilette.

"I must be downstairs to receive, and can't wait another moment; so
put in the blue pompon and let me go," she said at last, with a sigh
of disappointment, for the desire to look beautiful that night in
Somebody's eyes had increased four-fold.

With a tragic gesture, Marie was about to adjust the pompon when the
quick tap of a crutch came down the hall, and Lizzie hurried in,
flushed and breathless, but smiling happily as she uncovered the box
she carried with a look of proud satisfaction.

A general "Ah!" of admiration arose as Belle, mamma, and Marie
surveyed the lovely wreath that lay before them; and when it was
carefully arranged on the bright head that was to wear it, Belle
blushed with pleasure. Mamma said: "It is more beautiful than any
Paris could have sent us;" and Marie clasped her hands theatrically,
sighing, with her head on one side:

"Truly, yes; mademoiselle is now adorable!"

"I am so glad you like it. I did my very best and worked all night,
but I had to beg one spray from Estelle, or, with all my haste, I
could not have finished in time," said Lizzie, refreshing her weary
eyes with a long, affectionate gaze at the pretty figure before her.