Sir Otho and Lady Kitty partly promised to join them later in Italy, but the matter was not fully decided.
Flo Carrington, too, had sent over an early note, excitedly saying that she was not yet sure she could go, but the outlook was extremely hopeful.
Late in the afternoon they reached London, and as they left the train and found themselves in the ponderous bustle of the railway station, going through the usual distracting hunt for their luggage, Patty’s love for the great city came back to her, and she remarked to Nan that she greatly preferred city to country at any time.
“You are a chameleon, Patty,” said Nan, laughing. “I always said you were. Wherever you are, you immediately claim that it’s the best place in the world.”
“And a happy disposition, that is,” broke in Mr. Fairfield. “Though I’m ready to admit that this sitting on one’s trunk, to prevent another citizen from attaching it, is not my idea of luxurious ease.”
However, as always finally happens, a porter performed a great magic, and the party, in cab, drove off to the Savoy. Once again in one of its pleasantest apartments, the dust of travel removed, and tea served, it seemed like getting back home once more.
Mr. Fairfield, having pronounced against a restaurant dinner, had a delightful meal sent up to their own cosy drawing-room, and the three greatly enjoyed their family reunion.
“You people are the best,” declared Patty, as she lingered appreciatively over her somewhat scanty portion of ice cream. “By the way,” she interrupted herself, “I know why in London they always say ‘ice,’ instead of ‘ice cream.’ It’s because they never serve enough of it to justify the longer title, though it’s of the same materials and quite as good as the American variety. Well, as I was saying, you two are the best people I know. I’ve had quite enough of friends, and acquaintances, and hostesses, and staying guests, and all that; I’m glad to be back with my relatives.”
“I’d think more of that, Patty,” said Nan, smiling, “if I weren’t sure that you’d take the first chance that offered to go straying off again.”
“Isn’t she awful, Daddy?” said Patty, placidly. “She doesn’t know a compliment when she sees one. Well, let’s have these empty plates removed, and get out our maps and plans. I’m crazy to see where we’re going.”