AN IDYL OF THE PERIOD. I. "COME right in-how are you, Fred? Find a chair and have a light." Well, old boy, recovered yet From the Mathers' jam last night? "Didn't dance; the german's old." “Didn't you? I had to lead— Awful bore-but where were you?" "Sat it out with Molly Meade; Jolly little girl she is— Said she didn't care to dance, 'D rather have a quiet chat; Then she gave me such a glance! Gave me her bouquet to hold, Asked me to draw off her glove; Then, of course, I squeezed her hand, Talked about my wasted life, Said my sole salvation must Be a true and gentle wife. Then, you know, I used my eyes; That I-kissed her. Pass a light." II. "Mollie Meade-well, I declare! Who'd have thought of seeing you, After what occurred last night, Out here on the avenue? Oh, you awful, awful girl! There, don't blush-I saw it all." "Saw all what?" "Ahem! last night— At the Mathers' in the hall." “Oh, you horrid ! where were you? He was all in earnest, too; But I really thought I'd have to laughWhen he kissed a flower I gave, Looking, Oh, like such a calf! I suppose he has it now In a wine-glass on his shelves; It's a mystery to me Why men will deceive themselves. I know it wasn't really right ANONYMOUS. A TINY TRAGEDY. PERIOD-Indefinite. SCENE-Anywhere. ACT I. A SHADY nook- A garden chair A youthful pair— |