Marion Marlowe in Society, or, A Race for a Title — page 11: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

8 The first visit to the magnificent residence was followed by another and another, and then, as the company was disbanded at the close of its run, Marion accepted the lady’s urgent invitation and consented to be her guest for the holidays. — “It won't hurt you to see a little of so- ciety,’ Mrs. Stetson had said. “You are alone in the world with your living to earn and, as I was once in the same position my- self, I can sympathize pach you, my dear, and I want to help you.” “But, my dear Mrs. Stetson, I am only a country girl,’ Marion had urged. “So was I,” was the lady’s answer; “but I am a society leader now. With plenty of spunk and money all things are possible.” _ Marion laughed, but the prospect was not - without its attraction. She was sure that in society she would learn many valuable lessons. It was just possible that Marion had an- other reason, also, for her two best friends, Mr, Ray -and Dr, wealthy young men, who moved in the most Brookes, were both exclusive set. She was sure to meet them on their own footing now, whereas before they had always been obliged to come to her level, which was that of a girl fighting her own way alone in a big city. Marion did not for a ..oment forget that to be a lady and wor.hy of a man’s honor and re- spect was the highest position which any girl could attain—still, there was a certain satisfaction in belonging to that clique of society which is designated as “exclusive.” Marion had no ambitions whatever in the social line, but she meant to secure what knowledge of the world she could glean and, if possible, improve her manners and ap- pearance by the study of cultured people. For, of course, one expects to find polish Where refinement dwell, in society. wealth and every acces- sory to there should be no MY QUEEN, ~ excuse for uncouthness in Speech or man- ners. <é . I must study the ladies closely,’ Marion said to her hostess, when they met at din- ner. “I must learn perfect repose of man- ner and gentleness of speech, for I know I am impulsive and brusque and too given to speaking my mind—faults that no doubt are due to my humble country origin.” Mrs. Stetson glanced at her to see if she were serious; then a broad smile stole Over her florid features. ; - “There are several ladies in our class who answer to your thoughtfully ; description,” she said, “and, of course, I shall take pleasure in pointing them out, but you take © my advice and act naturally, Marion, and if vou do shock some one occasionally by your fearless speech, it wont hurt them, my dear, and it may be beneficial.” “As if anything I could say would be of benefit to these grand ladies,” was the young “but I am- almost afraid I shall have to act naturally. The gift of dis- girl’s answer ; sembling has been denied me, Mrs. son. “A little of it is a good thing, but you was the ‘Be all things to all men,’ if can cultivate all you need, Marion,” lady’s answer. you wish to succeed, but always be true to yourself, no matter what you are to others.” “The last will not be difficult,” said the beautiful girl, seriously. “I doubt if I could deceive myself if I tried, Mrs. Stetson. I am painfully aware of my own deficiencies and shortcomings.” “Well, vourself, again, “Remember our graces were given us for don’t admit them to any one but my dear,” said the lady Stet- | ‘ ‘ ‘- public wear, while our faults are to be hidden in the seclusion of our own chamber.” Marion pondered over her words with a Mrs, Stetson’s philosophy had been gained through long creat deal of carnestnesss. GEomicboo G Ss:¢O