"Howdy-do, Mr. Polly? Is it warm enough for you? I want to make you acquainted with my friend, Lilly Harkins."
"Pleased to meet you," said Mr. Polly.
"I didn't think you'd mind my bringin' a lady friend along to-night. I thought maybe you could find her a friend up at the hall, Mr. Polly."
He bowed with alacrity.
"Always ready to do the ladies a favor," he said, extending both arms akimbo and stepping between them.
Lilly hung back with becoming reticence.
"I'm afraid I'm butting in—two's company an' three's a crowd."
They hastened to reassure her.
"You just make yourself right at home. I'm always ready to do the ladies a favor, Miss Harkins."
A startled expression flashed across Lilly's face. Her friend sprang into the breach like a life-saver off a pier.