She carried out her plan, and took the two girls to luncheon and then to the theatre, and she was glad to see that Patty’s poise had returned to her, and though not exactly cheerful, she was at least, calm and composed.
Whether this was due to the gay entertainment, or to her avowed faith in her recreant lover, Nan didn’t know. But she was glad that Patty was outwardly pleasant and placid, whatever might be the turmoil in her heart.
They returned home about six o’clock, and as they entered, Jane, the housemaid, told Patty there had been a long-distance telephone call for her, during the afternoon.
“And whoever it was,” Jane said, “promised to call you again later,—at half-past six.”
“All right,” said Patty, her heart bounding with hope that the call might be from Washington. But it was improbable, for owing to the difficulties and delays in getting a good connection, Bill rarely could take time for this method of communication.
Still outwardly serene, she went to her room and took off her wraps, and then returned to the library to await the expected call.
“Of course, it will be Bill,” said Helen, comfortingly.
“Of course it won’t,” Patty returned, drearily, and then she waited.
CHAPTER XII
LENA AND BILL
To get the right view of certain matters, let us go back a few days, and transport ourselves to Washington.