“I’m an artist in most ways, yes,” he replied; “and I love colour better than anything else in the world. Those two shades in your cloak, now, are like——”
“Like coffee and strawberry ice cream,” put in saucy Patty, and young Austin agreed enthusiastically.
“Just that,” he cried, “and surely there’s no better combination.”
“I like lemon, myself,” began Sir Otho, and just then Lady Hamilton came trailing her soft frills across the lawn toward the group.
“Floyd Austin! by all that’s wonderful!” she exclaimed, as she held out both hands to the young man, and smiled a welcome.
“Yes, Lady Kitty,” he said, taking her hands, and smiling an acceptance of her welcome, “and so glad to see you again.”
“Is Mr. Austin a long-lost brother?” asked Patty, “and if so, why have I never heard of him before?”
“Yes, he’s a brother of all the world,” said Kitty; “the very dearest boy ever. I believe he lives next door to us, but he’s never there, for when he’s there he’s always here!”
“Oh, is he Irish?” said Patty, and Floyd Austin’s eyes twinkled at her quick repartee.