city. Is there any other information you desire? If so, I shall be glad to give it to you."
"Have you given this matter out to any other paper?"
"No. Our hostess said she would give it exclusively to you, as your paper had been the fairest in mentioning the affair in advance," replied Marie.
"Thanks; that is very good. You know we newspapers always adore a scoop," said Olivia, and she smiled in satisfaction.
"Why, what in the name of goodness is a scoop?" queried Marie.
"When we print a good thing that other papers fail to get, we call it a scoop."
"Thanks for the information. May I not," said Marie, "order some refreshments?"
"No, thank you," said Winters, with modest dignity, "I only accept hospitality under certain conditions."
"Be that as you wish," said Marie, with equal dignity, "I had no desire to offend."
"I am sure of that, my dear young lady; yet even newspaper women have their scruples."
"Then I can serve you no further?"
"In no way save to assist me in getting out quickly and unobserved."
"Then follow me," said Marie.
Olivia Winters followed her guide, and was soon in the office of the Tattler, pegging away, while Marie returned to assist the hostess in entertaining the numerous guests.
