There was such a ring of sincerity in Cameron's tone that Patty looked up at him suddenly. And the honest look in his eyes made it impossible for her to return any flippant response.
"And I'm glad, too, that we are friends, Kit," she said, simply.
The next dance was Mr. Bell's, and that rosy-cheeked youth came up blithely to claim it.
"Come along, Cousin Patty," he said, and Cameron stared at him in amazement.
"Are you two cousins?" he said.
"Once removed," returned Eddie Bell, gaily; "and this is the removal." He took Patty's hand and laid it lightly within his own arm as he led her away.
"Don't let's dance right off," he begged. "Let's rest a minute in this bosky dell."
The dell was an alcove off the ballroom, which contained several palms and floral baskets and a deep, cushioned window-seat.
"Let's sit here and watch the moon rise;" and he led Patty toward the window-seat, where he deftly arranged some cushions for her.
"I believe the moon rises to-morrow afternoon," said Patty.