“How do you do, Mrs. Meredith?” said Patty, in her most dulcet tones. “I took the liberty of bringing a little friend of mine. Though she wasn’t invited, I feel sure you can spare her a little bit of your welcome and hospitality.”
Mrs. Meredith, a young woman of great dignity, looked at Milly in astonishment. As Patty had carefully taught her, the midget dropped a dainty courtesy, and smiled up in her hostess’ face.
Remembering the great desirability of Patty’s friendship, Mrs. Meredith retained her composure, and laughed. “You dear girl, how original you are! Who else would have thought of bringing a baby to my reception? Is she a relative of yours?”
“Not that,” said Patty, smiling, “but a very dear friend.”
And then Channing stepped up to greet Mrs. Meredith, and others quickly followed, so that our trio could drift away into the crowd of chatting, laughing people.
“What shall we do with Middy?” said Patty, anxiously. “The little thing will be smothered down there, among all those full skirts and floating sashes!”
For already the tiny mite was entangling her little fingers in the fringed ends of a lady’s scarf.
“I’ll take her,” and Chick leaned down, and picking up Middy, seated her on his broad shoulder.
It made a bit of a sensation, for Channing’s towering height made him always a conspicuous figure, and the laughing baby attracted every one’s attention.
“Now’s your chance!” he whispered suddenly. “Everybody is looking at us. Step up on this chair and auction her off! I dare you to!”