Page:Georgie by Dorothea Deakin, 1906.djvu/293

When the Girls Came Out you lick creation, with these rapid engagements of yours. I heard that you'd lost your money. Is that true, too? Do tell."

"That's true, too," said Georgie.

She laughed.

"Then I guess I'll have to ask you to see me home," with a sly and most bewitching smile.

Georgie flushed. "I am afraid I must beg you to excuse me," he answered firmly. I don't know how he could.

Phillida gave a little gasp—then laughed nervously. Obviously she saw that this was no moment for maidenly reticence.

"I guess I'll have to take you back myself," said she quickly. "I guess you'll have to help me to spend all those dollars. There's too much for one bit of a gurl to spend. And I do my vurry best."

I regarded the summery delicacy of her lovely gown, and felt that here she did indeed speak the truth. But Georgie edged away from her towards the window.

"It's very noble of you," he said hurriedly, "and all that sort of thing, but it's 277