It was a perfect day.  Although it was early in December, the atmosphere was like Indian summer.  Washington shone sparkling white through a dim veil of haze.  The “Automobile Girls” walked briskly along toward the White House, chatting every step of the way.

“Where are the poplar trees planted along this avenue by Thomas Jefferson, Ruth?” Grace Carter demanded.  “I read somewhere that Jefferson meant to make this avenue look like the famous street called ’Unter den Linden’ in Berlin.”

“He did, child, but most of the poplar trees died,” Ruth rejoined, “and some one else planted these oaks and elms.  Why are you so silent, Barbara?  Are you tired?”

“I think Washington is the most beautiful city in the whole world,” Bab answered with sudden enthusiasm.

“Wait until you have seen it,” Ruth teased.  “Uncle William wants to take us through the Capitol.  But I suppose there is no harm in our looking at the outside of the White House.  Later on, when we go to one of the President’s receptions, we can see the inside of it.”

“Shall we ever see the President?” Mollie asked breathlessly.  “Won’t it be wonderful?  I never dreamed that even Mr. Hamlin could take us to the President’s home.”

“Here we are at the White House,” said Ruth.

The “Automobile Girls” stood silent for a moment, looking in through the autumn foliage at the simple colonial mansion, which is the historic “White House.”

“I am glad our White House looks like that,” Bab said, after half a moment’s pause.  “I was so afraid it would be pretentious.  But it is just big and simple and dignified as our President’s home ought to be.  It makes me feel so glad to be an American,” Barbara ended with a flush.  She was afraid the other girls were laughing at her.

“I think so too, Bab,” Ruth agreed.  “I don’t see why girls cannot be as patriotic as boys.  We may be able to serve our country in some way, some day.  I hope we shall have the chance.”

The “Automobile Girls” had entered the White House grounds and were strolling along through the park.

Bab and Ruth were talking of the beauties of Washington.  But no such thoughts were engrossing pretty Mollie’s attention.  Mollie’s mind was dwelling on the society pleasures the “Automobile Girls” expected to enjoy at the Capital City.  Grace Carter was listening to Barbara’s and Ruth’s animated conversation.

From the very first days at Newport, Mollie Thurston had cared more for society than had her sister and two friends.  Her dainty beauty and pretty manners made her a favorite wherever she went.  Mollie’s friends had spoiled her, and since her arrival in Washington the old story had repeated itself.  Harriet Hamlin had already taken Mollie under her special protection.  And Mollie was wildly excited with the thought of the social experiences ahead of her.

The four girls spent some time strolling about the White House grounds.  Then Ruth proposed that they take a car and visit the Congressional Library.