Perhaps David would have done so, had it not been for Dick Roberts. Perceiving John’s disinclination to leave the group, Dick instantly surmised his reason and came to the rescue by talking incessantly to Marjorie for some time. Before he had stopped, Griffith Hunter appeared at the steps.
“Hello, Hunter!” called David, cheerily. “Come on up.”
“Thanks,” replied the young man. “I haven’t long to stay.”
“You’ve met Miss Wilkinson, haven’t you, Mr. Hunter?” asked Lily.
“Yes, indeed!” he replied. “And it was for that very reason that I came over. I want to ask you, Miss Wilkinson—” he bowed slightly—“whether you would do me the honor of playing in the tennis tournament with me?”
John Hadley appeared through the screen door just in time to hear this invitation. He stood perfectly still, in amazement at the boldness, the assurance of this young aristocrat. Surely Marjorie would resent such an attitude!
But to his surprise, Marjorie nodded gaily. “I’ll be delighted,” she said. “I made up my mind to accept the first partner who asked me. And really”—she looked shyly at David—“I was beginning to be afraid I’d have to stay out.”
“Then, Lily,” exclaimed Dick, turning to the other girl, “I ask you right now. The early bird—”
“So you mean to imply I’m a worm,” she retorted, haughtily. Then, laughing, “Well, I guess I am when it comes to tennis. You won’t find me much of a partner, Dick.”
“Oh, Jack, what’s the news?” cried Marjorie, suddenly noticing her brother again.