Hal Ferris jumped a low chair and two footstools to reach Patty before any one else could. “Come in with me,” he said. “I know the way to the dining-room.”
“I’m glad to be shown,” said Patty. “You see, I’ve never been here before.”
“I know it; that’s why I’m being so kind to you. To-morrow I’ll take you up in the tower—it’s great.”
“Why, is this place a castle?”
“Not exactly, but it’s modelled after an old château. Really, it’s a most interesting house.”
“All right. To-morrow we’ll explore it thoroughly.”
And then they took their seats at the table, and as the party was small, conversation became general.
Suddenly Patty became aware that Mr. Collins, who sat on the other side of her, was trying to attract her attention. He was a mild-mannered young man, and he looked at her reproachfully.
“I’ve asked you a question three times, Miss Fairfield,” he said, “and you never even heard it.”
“Then you certainly can’t expect me to answer it, Mr. Collins,” and Patty laughed gaily. “Won’t you repeat it for me, please? I’ll promise to hear it this time.”