"May I not ride with you to-morrow morning?" he asked. He had intended to leave Herculaneum at noon; but there were many later trains.
"That will be delightful! I know so many beautiful roads; and we can lunch at the Country Club. And Jove can go along, too."
"Where is the traitor?"
"He is sound asleep on the veranda rugs."
"Well, it's long past his bedtime. I must be going."
"Some time I hope you will come just to call on me."
"I shall not need any urging."
They followed him to the door, and good nights were said.
"Oh, Patty, he has lifted so much doubt!" said the mother, as the two returned to the library. "He has nothing but praise for Miss Challoner. It is quite possible that John will be happy."
"It is not only possible, mother darling, but probable. For my part, I think her the most charming, most fascinating woman I ever met. And she told me she rides. What jolly times we'll have together, when John settles down in the new house!"