"Of course it is. Look here, Patty, you and I are chums. If you've anything on your mind, just reel it off and get rid of it. Perhaps I can help."
"It's only about the children," began Patty.
"Well! Go on! What about them?"
"I meant to buy them some presents, and there was no time when we were shopping this morning, and Aunt Lucy isn't going into town again before Christmas, so I can't get them at all now," said Patty, blurting out her trouble as briefly as she could.
"Is that all?" asked Horace.
"It's quite enough for me," replied Patty, wiping her eyes again.
"Why, my dear girl, that's easily remedied. Put on your hat and jacket and I'll take you to town in the tramcar. It's only half-past three, and we'll soon buy what you want."
"Oh! Would Aunt Lucy really let us?" cried Patty, brightening up at such a delightful prospect.
"Why not? We'll go and ask her. Stuff that handkerchief in your pocket, and come along now."
Horace knew exactly the right way to wheedle his mother, and very soon persuaded her to allow them to start on their expedition.