"The house IS new," said Mrs. Perry, laughing, "but we're getting to be old people, and we want you young folks to liven us up."
"Old people!" and Patty smiled at the pretty young matron.
"Yes, wait till you see my baby. She's almost three years old! Fancy my going to balls, with a big girl like that."
"You're just fishing," said Patty, laughingly, "and I shan't humour you. I know you young mothers! You go to a party, and you're the belles, and leave all us wall-flowers green with envy!"
Mrs. Perry's eyes twinkled, and she looked so roguish that Patty exclaimed, "You're exactly like Mr. Cameron! I can well believe you're his sister."
"Who's he? Oh, you mean Kit! I don't think I ever heard him called Mr. Cameron before, and it does sound so funny! Can't we persuade you to say Kit?"
"I don't mind, if he doesn't," said Patty, carelessly. "What a darling room this is!"
"Yes; this is one of my pet rooms. I always give it to my favourite guests."
"I don't wonder," and Patty looked round admiringly at the dainty draperies and pretty appointments of the chamber.
"Marie always has it when she's here; but, of course, she was glad to give it up to you, and I put her in the blue room just across the hall. Come now, powder your nose, we must run down to tea. Don't change your frock."