“Ah, that’s the beauty of it! It’s just fifteen dollars a week. And as I get ‘board and lodging’ beside, I’m really doing better than I agreed to.”
“I don’t like it, Patty,” said Nan, after a few moments’ thought. “But it’s better, in some ways, than the other things you’ve done. Go on, and I’ll truly do all I can to talk your father into letting you stay there a week; but if he won’t consent, I can’t help it.”
“Why, of course he’ll consent, Nan, if you put it to him right. You can make him see anything as you see it, if you try. You know you can.”
“Well, go ahead. I suppose a week will pass; and anyway, you’ll probably come flying home after a couple of days.”
“No; I’m going to stay the week, if it finishes me. I’m tired of defeats; this time I conquer. You may help me pack, if you like.”
“You won’t need many frocks, will you?” said Nan, as they went up to Patty’s room.
“No; just some light, dressy things for evening,—she’s rather formal,—and some plain morning gowns.”
Nan helped Patty with her selection, and a small trunk was filled with what they considered an appropriate wardrobe for a companion.
At about four o’clock Patty started, in the motor-car.
Mrs. Van Reypen received her pleasantly, and as they sat chatting over a cup of tea, Patty felt more like an honoured guest than a subordinate.