Page:Helen Leah Reed - Napoleons young neighbour.djvu/93

Rh picturing to herself what a fine impression she would make at this first appearance at a grown-up function.

The Emperor's praises were particularly gratifying, because he had a way of ridiculing any detail of dress that he did not like.

"Oh, Mees Betsee," he would cry, "why do you wear trousers? You look just like a boy;" and any one who has seen pictures of girls in pantalets will admit that they merited criticism. Or again he would say:

"If I were governor I would make a law against ladies wearing those ugly, short waists. Why do you wear them, Mees Betsee?"

It was, therefore, delightful to the young girl that he approved her ball-gown.

After sufficient praise had been given the dress, the four sat down to play, Napoleon and Jane against Las Cases and Betsy.

"Mademoiselle Betsee," said the Emperor, "I tire of sugar-plums. I bet you a napoleon on the game. What will you put against it?"

"I have no money," replied Betsy, a little shyly for her. "I have nothing worth a napoleon except—oh, yes—my little pagoda. Will that do?"