The Salt Lake herald. [volume] (Salt Lake City [Utah]) 1870-1909, 1891-12-25

eoSGM-NSthe usual round Of holiday fes
@GrrkESfoy tivities had commenced, that
NJ E%A Philine Folger gave musicale
bSSy s WI at her home. Among those
E%@ present were men and women
AN eSof fashionable centre, 1nclud-
(9PTing musical, literary and art devo-
"a tees. The entertainment was most
y enjoyable, and long to be remem-
bered for the rare excellence OF the music.
After the final number on the programme
had been rendered, refreshments were
served to the guests who had separated
into social groups.
In one corner of the room, Philine had
become the centre of an admiring crowd.
She gradually led the conversation to
lively and interesting discussion of the
prizes offered by some of the leading papers
of the city for Christmas stories, for she
knew there were several in the group with
literary talents and aspirations. There
were little Miss Jones, who wore glasses;
Katherine Mckay, whose poetry readily
found publication; Harry Wright,
one of Philine's admirers who
read great deal but was
opposed even to letter writing; and lastly,
WHY'S Brown, whose ability was recog-
nized least of all by reason of his extreme
modesty.
"Do you know" Philine was saying
"that the Morning NclUs is offering prize
of 500 for Christmas story? l am very
anxious that someone in our circle should
try for that prize. Indeed, 1 have quite
set my heart upon it. Why don't some of
you compete"
''I am sure" said one of the young men,
"where there is so much talent some one
should do so. Why don't you, Miss Fol-
ger?''
81" exclaimed Philine, laughing; 81
would never be successful as a writer,
though 1 admire talent and appreciate good
work. Now, there's Mr.. Wright, who is
able, but does not care to exert himself"
81 suppose might forgive you for call
ing me lazy" said Harry, with smile,
"for that is what your remark implied, no
doubt"
Take the remark as you choose" she
said, turning to Miss Jones, without giving
him a chance to defend himself. miss
Jones, perhaps you will compete since it
seems so hard to enthuse Mr.. Wright"
81 don't know" replied the young lady,
with a seif-conscious air. 81 shall be very
busy between now and Christmas, and do
not believe shall find time"
ssWell, we'll" said Philine; katherine,
you will have TO redeem US. II you only
will try, Pill offer almost any inducement."
"If l thought could, I might make the
attempt, but 1 feel incapable said the
girl, simply.
''Now, Miss Mckay, girl Of your repu-
tation as postess-" began Harry Wright
who was always ready with some pleasing
remark.
Poetry and prose are two different
things" interrupted Katherine.
Il don't see what we shall do" said Phil
inc with an air of bewilderment. ''If no
one else will contend for that prize we will
have to call on Mr.. Brown
The attention of all in the group was di-
rected to the young man, who, though he
blushed slightly, retained his composure.
Philine lost no opportunity to tease him,
for she, like the others, had little faith in
his ability.
eyes," said Harry, with slight tinge OF
sarcasm. ga young man of your ability
should surely have no objections to becom-
ing our representative"
81 can only express myself as did Miss
Mckay" replied WHY'S; land say am
not able"
"Oh, come now" said Harry, 81 wouldn't
acknowledge that"
ssPerhaps," interrupted Philine, 81 shall
give you occasion TO acknowledge your
self wanting in ability, as l insist on
some one of this party competing for that
prize, so be careful of your sarcasms lest
you be the one"
''Oh, won't mind if I am,' replied Har.
nv, turning to note the effect of his words
on WHY'S, who was quietly talking to Miss
Mckay. Then, turning again to Philine
he endeavored to monopolizs her attention
for the rest of the evening, for he thought
she was inclined to show WHY'S some
favor, and he wished to make it appear
that his own society was preferred. In
fact, he was Jealous of her, and determined
TO put an end to uncertainty by ascertain
ing the state of her feelings for him as soor
as possible: so he managed to draw hel
aside and tell her of his love Philine
though not by any means il
love with him, was fattered BY
his declaration, for Harry Wright
besides being one Of the wealthiest young
men in town, was tall and handsome, ana
whrt society would consider a good match
Her dark eyes flashed mischievously a,
he ended his declaration with the question
''What shall it be-yes or no!''
''Mr. Wright she aaid, 81 don't know
that can give your question due consider
alton THO evening, for my mind is so taker
up with that Christmas prize. wish vol
would enter the competition"
"Why, will, if you so earnestly desir,
it." said he; shut won't you answer m,
question:
She paused moment and then said