“Come in, Mr. Southard,” said Anne, and the door opened to admit the eminent actor, who looked bigger and handsomer than ever in his long coat and soft black hat.

Then Anne presented him to Mrs. Gibson, and a general handshaking ensued.

For the third time that night they were handed into the “uncomplaining but over-worked taxicab,” according to Nora’s version, and set out for the Southard home.

The entire party promptly fell in love with Miss Southard, who was the counterpart of her brother, except that she was considerably older, and she apparently returned their liking from the moment of meeting.

“I know every one of you,” she said.  “Anne talks of no one else to me.  Your fame has already preceded you.”

The Southards proved to be hospitable entertainers, and exerted every effort in behalf of their young guests.  The time slipped by on wings, and it was well after one o’clock before any one thought of returning to the hotel.

“I am not a very reliable chaperon,” laughed Mrs. Gibson, “to allow my charges to keep such late hours as this.”

“It’s only once in a life time,” remarked Nora.

“How very cruel,” said Mr. Southard solemnly.  “I had hoped that you would all honor us again with your society.”

“I didn’t mean that,” she cried, laughing a little.  “I only meant that this was a red-letter night for us.  We are basking in the light of greatness.”

“Very pretty, indeed,” was the actor’s reply, and he gave Nora one of his rare, beautiful smiles that caused her to afterwards aver that he was truly the handsomest man in the whole world.

With many expressions of pleasure for the delightful hours they had passed, the revelers bade the Southards good night and good-bye.

“I am going to give a special party to the Phi Sigma Tau and these young men, when my season closes,” announced the actor as they stood in the wide hall for a moment before leaving.  “I trust that you may be able to again assume the role of chaperon,” he added to Mrs. Gibson.

“I shall need no second invitation,” replied Mrs. Gibson.  “But may I not hope to see your sister and yourself at Hawks’ Nest, in the near future?”

“You are indeed kind,” responded Mr. Southard.  “It would be a distinct pleasure and perhaps I may be able to arrange it.  My season is to be a short one.”

“Get your things and come with us, Anne,” teased Grace.  “We’ve loads of things to talk of, and you can breakfast with us, and go to the train, too.  Please don’t say no, because you won’t see us again for three whole weeks.”

“I give you my official permission to carry her off, this one time, Grace,” laughed Mr. Southard.

“Better wear your long coat, dear.  It is very cold,” called Miss Southard as Anne ran upstairs after her wraps.

Then the final good-byes were said and the party were driven back to their hotel.