Farnsworth took out a notebook and pencil, and they suggested various names, some of which they decided for and some against.
At last Patty said, in an assured tone, “And Phil Van Reypen.”
“Not on your life!” exclaimed Bill. “If he goes I don’t!”
“Why, Little Billee, we couldn’t have the party at all without you!”
“Then you’ll have it without him! See?”
Patty pouted. “I don’t see why. He’s an awfully nice man, I think.”
“Oh, you do, do you? Why don’t you stay home, then, and have him down at the seashore to visit you?”
“Oh, that wouldn’t be half as much fun. But up there is that lovely place, all woodsy and lakey and sunsetty, I could have a splendid time, if I had all my friends around me.” Patty’s sweet face looked very wistful, and Farnsworth scanned it closely.
“Does it mean so much as that to you, Patty? If it does, you shall have him invited.”
“Oh, I don’t care. It’s your party, do just as you like.”