CHAPTER XX
BLOSSOM GIRL
Such a clever and resourceful housekeeper as Adele Kenerley found no trouble in arranging a second dinner for half-past seven, although one had been served at six. Patty safely out of the way, Adele presided at the board with a light-hearted gaiety that surprised even her husband.
Farnsworth, too, was in good spirits, though both the Kenerleys detected a roving eye and an alert ear that made them think he suspected, or at least hoped, that Patty was there. But he said nothing that indicated his thoughts except to ask on arrival if there were other guests.
"As you see," said Adele. "But I'm flattering myself that you came this time just to visit the Kenerleys."
"What more could one desire?" returned Farnsworth. And the conversation continued in a light and impersonal tone. Patty's name was mentioned, and innocently enough. Adele asked how she was.
"Well, I trust," said Farnsworth. "I was at her house at a Sale affair, last night, and she was all right then. Very much all right. But today, I called up the house, and they said she had gone away. I don't know where."
"And you thought she was up here! Oh, Big Bill, and I thought you came to see us!" Adele looked deeply chagrined.
"I'm jolly glad to see you, Adele, but to be honest, that little Patty person has turned my head."
"Truly, Bill?"