He had moved to the city of New York with the idea of helping¹ himself in both these particulars. He took a house on an up-town street at a considerable rental². It was really beyond his means, but he felt that he must make a good appearance.

 

He sent Edgar to a fashionable school where he instructed him to be especially attentive³ to his wealthier schoolfellows. Though Edgar made himself disagreeable to his poor relations, he flattered and fawned⁴ upon the boys who he thought could help him socially, for he, like his father, was ambitious to "get into society."

 

Thus he contrived⁵ to get invited to the party given by Maud Gilbert.

 

When he had compassed this he was greatly elated.

 

"Father," he said on his return home, "I am invited to Miss Gilbert's party next Thursday evening."

 

"Do you mean the Gilberts of West Forty-Fifth Street?"

 

"Yes."

 

"I am very much pleased, Edgar. Mr. Gilbert is a wealthy merchant, and stands very high in society. How did you manage it?"

 

"Through Stanley Rayburn, who knows her brother."

 

"Have you made the acquaintance of Miss Gilbert?"

 

"Yes, I met her walking with Stanley on Fifth Avenue. He introduced me."

 

"I should hardly think she would have invited you on such short acquaintance."

 

"I got Stanley to make a personal request of her. She objected at first, but finally came round. Stanley says she is very good-natured and obliging."

 

"Luckily for you. Well, I am glad you have the invitation. It will be an entering wedge. You must try to get acquainted with as many of her guests as possible."

 

"Trust me for that, father. I know on which side my bread is buttered."

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