And then Mr. Cameron reluctantly took himself off.
CHAPTER VIII
A HOUSE PARTY
Somehow or other Mr. Cameron immediately became a prominent factor in the Fairfield household. He appeared frequently, and even more frequently he telephoned or he wrote notes or he sent flowers or messages, until Patty declared he was everlastingly under foot!
But he was so gay and good-natured, so full of pranks and foolery, that it was impossible to snub him or to be annoyed with him.
He was a civil engineer, having already built up a good-sized business. But he seemed to be both able and willing to leave his office at any hour of the day or night for any occasion where Patty was concerned.
But he apparently fulfilled her wishes as to being her friend and chum and comrade, without falling in love with her.
"He's a thoroughly nice chap," Mr. Fairfield often said; "good-natured and right-minded, as well as clever and talented."
So, as he was also a favourite with Nan, he dropped in at the Fairfield house very often, and Patty grew to like him very much.
The opera party had duly taken place and had been a pleasant success. The musical entertainment was being planned for some weeks hence, as it was not easy to find a near-by date which suited all concerned.