“Hello Patty,” they said quietly.  Word apparently had gotten around about her plight.  By their tone, Patty guessed that her sisters had asked them to be nice and understanding and try to protect her, since they did not go to the same school, being older.  “We can walk with you, if you like,” said a pretty one named Jane.

“Y-yes, that would be nice.  Thank you.”

“That’s a pretty dress, Patty,” said another, she knew as Glenda.  Then, seeing the look of apprehension on Patty’s face, she added, “Oh! I really mean it.  I’m not being funny. It IS a pretty dress. And the lace…”

Patty looked down. “Thank you.”  Patty liked Glenda, so this was difficult, but they were being nice.

Glenda continued as they walked, softly, “Is this punishment hard for you, poor boy?  I mean, you must feel so…awful.”

“It’s not so bad. It’s just…”

“Yes?”

“It’s just these darn stays – they are so tight!”

“Now you know what we girls go through.  But you will grow accustomed to them,” said Jane.

“Pat, we will help you ward off those awful boys.  Just stay with us,” said Glenda.  “And I know Mary and Millie in your class – we shall explain the situation to them, and they can do the same!  What a pretty bonnet!”