“Yes, but ours is more beautiful, I think, and quite big enough for our party.”
“Of course. Oh, what a stunning-looking woman! See, Chick, over toward your left.”
Channing turned slightly to see a very handsome dark-eyed woman, who smiled at him as their glances met.
“Why, bless my soul!” he exclaimed; “if it isn’t Maudie Kent. I say, Patty, don’t you want to meet her? She’s an actress, or was, and she’s a dear. Awfully good form and all that, and really worth while.”
“Yes, I’d love to know her,” said Patty, looking with interest at the stunning gown the lady wore. It was of flame-coloured silk, veiled with black net, and was matched by a wide hat of black with flame-coloured plumes.
“Excuse me a moment, then,” and Channing rose and went over to where the lady stood. She was alone, and he had no difficulty in persuading her to come to their table.
“You dear child,” said Miss Kent, as Channing introduced them; “how pretty you are! I’m so glad to know you. But what are you doing here with Chick Channing?”
“Just having tea,” said Patty, smiling back into the big dark eyes that looked at her so kindly.
“But are you staying here? Where are your people?”
“We are staying over at Freedom Hall,” she began, and then paused, for with those eyes upon her, she couldn’t quite make it seem a rational thing to do.