"Wrong again. And blind, too. It's Azalea."
Farnsworth sank limply into a chair. He pretended to be dazed almost to insensibility, and as a matter of fact his surprise was nearly as great as his demonstration of it.
"Azalea!" he gasped. "Our Azalea!"
"Exactly; don't act as if I had suggested the Queen of Sheba! I know what a superior girl she is,—and I know I've not much to recommend me—"
"Oh, Phil,—oh, Van Reypen, stop! Have you lost your senses?"
"I think you have!" Phil looked decidedly annoyed. "I must say,
Farnsworth, I don't quite get you."
"I beg your pardon, dear old chap, I—I was a bit astounded. You see—"
"I see that I've a right to care for the girl if I choose, and as you are her nearest relative, that I know of, I come to you for sanction of my suit. Aside from your rather inexplicable astonishment—have you any real objection to me as a new cousin-in-law?"
"No! You know I haven't!" Farnsworth held out a cordial hand which the other grasped. "In fact, I think it's fine,—a most admirable arrangement. What will Patty say?"
"I hope she'll be pleased. It's no secret that I adored Patty and tried my best to cut you out,—but, not having succeeded in that, I've been glad to be the friend of both of you, and we've had lots of good times, all together. But,—well, I never expected to know another real whole-hearted love,—and then along comes this splendid girl,—this daughter of your own big, beautiful, breezy West, and before I know it, she has taken my heart by storm!"