After lunch there was a merry party on the cool porch of the Corner House. Luke was there, bringing word that he had had a telegram and that his sister and her intended would be unable to get to Milton, as had been planned, in order to accompany them on the little outing.
“And what is the opinion of the learned Mr. Howbridge concerning the collar-cleansing representative of the Celestial Empire?” asked Luke of Ruth.
“Meaning Hop Wong?” asked Neale.
“Yes, my son,” replied Luke, with a patronizing air.
“He doesn’t attach much importance to it,” Ruth answered.
“Same here,” voiced Neale.
“I think he’s a faker!” exclaimed Hal.
“Well, I don’t know but what I shall have to agree with you,” said Luke slowly. “I’ve thought it all over, and I can’t see but what it doesn’t amount to anything. Hop Wong must have been dreaming.”
“Call it a pipe dream,” suggested Neale, with a laugh.
“Oh, do you think he smokes opium?” asked Nalbro, shocked.