“The other gentleman is with him. His name is Signor Balotti, and he too is a soldier.”
“Then,” put in Flo, “inquire of his soldiership why they are not fighting.”
“He says,” resumed Snippy, “that they do not fight because there is no convenient war. But he does not regret that, since it gives him opportunity to meet three charming ladies.”
“Oh, Snippy-Snip,” said Patty, “are you sure you’re translating truly? Didn’t he say one charming lady, and two ill-mannered girls.”
“If he didn’t, it’s only because he is himself too polite to say so,” said Snippy, but there was a twinkle in her eye, and Patty could see that she had quite decided in favour of the young man’s desirability as an acquaintance.
They all rose from the tables then, and Snippy introduced the Italian to Mr. Fairfield. Though not fluent in the language, Mr. Fairfield could make himself understood, and while the ladies returned to the drawing-room car, he remained behind for a smoke and a chat with the young man.
When he returned, he electrified the two girls and Nan by telling them that Signor Grimaldi was a very desirable acquaintance indeed, as was also his chum, Signor Balotti. The men had arranged to meet them again in Florence, and would doubtless be a decided acquisition to their circle.
“I told you so!” said Patty. “I knew he was the salt of the earth as soon as I looked at him.”
“Pooh, I told you so first,” said Flo. “But I wish he could talk English. I don’t care much about knowing people I can’t talk to.”