“Congratulations, all the same,” said Van Reypen, cordially. “Patty, how are you? Sunburned? Not very much.” His manner was so cheery and his chatter so gay, nobody could be very serious, and the farewells became short and perfunctory.
Roger and Elise were taking Mona with them to Newport, where Mrs. Farrington was, and Bob Peyton was going directly home.
“Well,” said Van Reypen, “it’s lucky I came along, Mrs. Kenerley, to help you care for your charges. Cameron, you and I must look after things.”
“I’m on the job, too,” said Channing. “You can’t shake me till the last bell rings. Your train time, Farnsworth! So long, old man. See you when you return. You’re always turning and returning. And all thanks for a bully time!”
“Good-bye, everybody,” cried Bill, in his most genial way. “Glad you enjoyed it, and hope we can try it again some time. Good-bye, Patty,” and with a swift hand clasp, and a quick look in her eyes, Bill swung off and was lost to sight in the crowd.
Something seemed to snap in Patty’s heart. A cloud swam before her eyes, and she swayed a little where she stood.
“All right, girl,” said a strong, calm voice in her ear, and Van Reypen grasped her elbow and steadied her. Immediately, she was ashamed of her passing emotion, and laughed gaily, as she met his eyes.
“I’m here,” he said simply; “you’ll be taken care of.”
“Wherever did you drop from?” and Patty suddenly realised the queerness of his presence.
“Oh, I’m the little busybody who finds out things. I found out what train you people came down on, and I met it. Or rather, I tried to, but I reached it just as you left the station for this hostelry, so perforce, I followed you up. Now, may I attach myself to your cortège, Mrs. Kenerley? I can make myself useful, I assure you. Are you staying here over night?”