No other in the company appeared to observe
his poor dress, and he was cordially greeted by them all, with the
two exceptions already named.
"The janitor ought to know better than to intrude into the
society of his superiors," said Randolph to Sam.
"He seems to enjoy himself," said Sam.
This was half an hour after the party had commenced, when
all were engaged in one of the plays popular at a country party.
"I am going to have a party myself in a short time," continued
Randolph, "but I shall be more select than Florence in my invitations.
I shall not invite any working boys."
"Right you are, Randolph," said the subservient Sam. "I hope
you won't forget me."
"Oh, no; I shall invite you. Of course, you don't move exactly
in my circle, but, at any rate, you dress decently."
If Sam Noble had had proper pride he would have resented
the insolent assumption of superiority in this speech, but he was
content to play second fiddle to Randolph Duncan. His family,
like himself, were ambitious to be on good terms with the leading
families in the village, and did not mind an occasional snub.
"Shall you invite Tom Harper?" he asked.
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