"Yes. The Mayor told me so. The Colonel is a Radical, and a bad one at that, but the poor man comes of good family and is within the toils."
"I expect he really likes it," said Nellie, "I should."
"Are you nervous?" inquired Philip.
Nellie laughed and colored.
"I really am a little. I hope I shall behave properly. Mother is in a dreadful state."
"Where is Mrs. Hodge?"
"Putting some new lace on her gown."
"And Dale?"
"He's writing. Mr. Hume, has he told you anything about his visit yesterday?"