“It is not very gay here, now. We have a hop twice a week.”
“That will be delightful,” said Vane with enthusiasm.
“Do you reside in New York?” Miss Westerhouse broke in.
“As much as I do anywhere,” said Vane. “I have to travel a great deal.” Vane noticed a sudden lack of interest in him after this remark, and fancied that they set him down for a commercial traveler. “I have only lived in New York of late years, and then only when I am not——on the road,” he added, as the humorous view of the situation struck him. A silence followed this remark, and a certain coldness; but Vane, who had a particularly comfortable place, leaning back on a mossy rock, made no motion to go. Finally Miss Westerhouse made an effort.
“Then you are not much acquainted in New York.”
“I have a good many business acquaintances.”
“Oh, I mean your lady friends.”
“I have none,” said Vane.
“Some very pleasant New Yorkers have been here,” said Miss Morse, “but they only stayed a few days. Mrs. Haviland and Miss Thomas——” Vane could not repress a slight movement. “Do you know them?” said the young lady with some interest.
“Miss Winifred Thomas?”