Patty found an old dance programme in the desk near her, and Kit kindly essayed to rub off the names. Then with his fountain pen he wrote over the dances, “Limousine Ride.” “Runabout Spin.” “Walk.” “Skate.” “Opera.” “Dance.” “Matinée,” and a host of other pleasures to which Patty might reasonably expect to be invited soon.
But she would only allow them one each, and after they had written their names after the motor-car rides, they were shooed away by ever watchful Nan, who would not allow Patty to become overtired.
Then, one morning, in the mail came a communication from Mrs. Van Reypen’s lawyer. It informed Patty of the legacy left her. As Mrs. Van Reypen had said, there was a bequest of fifty thousand dollars to Patty herself, and another fifty thousand in trust for a fund for a Children’s Home. The details of the institution were left entirely to Patty’s discretion, and she was instructed, if in need of more funds, to apply to Philip Van Reypen.
Also was enclosed a note which Mrs. Van Reypen had written and directed to be given to Patty after her death.
“I’m afraid to open it, Nan,” said Patty, trembling as she looked at the sealed epistle.
“I don’t wonder you feel so, dear. Let me read it first.”
Gladly Patty passed it over, for she had no secrets from Nan, and her nerves were not yet as strong as before her illness.
Nan read it, and then said. “You need have no fear, Patty, it’s a dear note. Listen:
“My Dear Little Patty:
“I am afraid I made you sorrowful when I talked to you and urged you to promise the thing I asked of you. But don’t feel hard toward me. I have your interests at heart as well as Philip’s, and I know that what you have promised will mean your life’s happiness. Now, about the Children’s Home. If you feel that after all it is too great a tax on your time or strength to take it in charge, don’t do so. Turn it all over to some one else. You and Philip can decide on the right person for the work. But I trust you will have an interest in it, and see to it that the furnishings and little comforts are as you and I would choose were we working together. This note, dear, is to say good-bye. I shall not see you again, but I die content, knowing you will love and look after my boy. It seemed strange at first to your girl heart, but you will come to love him as your own, and your life together will be filled with joy and peace. Good-bye, my child, have a kindly remembrance in your heart for your old friend,