between dinner and the evening study bell, which was usually devoted to pleasant strolls or outdoor fun of some sort. Climbing over the rocks, Cathalina, Hilary, Betty and the rest found a suitable place, where a shelf jutted out from the cliff side and irregular rocks and boulders offered seats. There they settled, arranging their light dresses like a flock of sea birds alighting and preening their plumage. Knowing well, however, the strength of the lake winds, they had been wise enough to bring their sweaters or jackets. “Watch the clouds, girls,” said Lilian, “we ought not to think of such things as lessons and school with all this to look at.” “See the colors under that golden angel’s wing across the sky!” exclaimed Cathalina, pointing. “Father said I could paint this year if I wanted to. I wish I could mix colors like those! But come to order, ladies,—who shall be chairman? This is a real meeting, you know.” “I nominate Cathalina Van Buskirk,” said Hilary. “I nominate Hilary Lancaster,” said Cathalina. “No, I want to talk, Cathalina.” “So do I, Hilary!” The other girls laughed. “All I hope is—,” said Isabel, whose perch upon a round rock was rather precarious, “that no one will call for a rising vote!” “Eloise! Eloise!” cried Juliet, and the others took it up. Hilary put it to vote, and Eloise was unanimously elected chairman. “What am I chairman of, girls?” asked Eloise. “The meeting of the No Name Society, I guess,” said Pauline. “Girls, we must have a real society and a name!” “That is one of the objects of this meeting,” said Cathalina. “Madame chairman, may I have the floor?” “There isn’t any,” inserted Isabel. “I am speaking figuratively, Miss Hunt.” “O, excuse me.” “You may have whatever you want,” generously offered the chairman. “I think Isabel’s suggestion very good, considering our location. You need not rise, ladies and gentlemen. Just raise your hand, and voice, if necessary, and I will recognize you. Ahem. Ladies and gentlemen, I appreciate the honor which is mine.
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