CHAPTER XXXVIII
AFTER THE CIRCUS
"THERE is nothing so exciting as a circus," said Ruth, "but oh, how comfortable and peaceful it seems to get away at last from the crowds and the noise! How quiet and cool this porch is, Bettina. In two minutes I'll get up and help you with dinner, but you made a mistake to put such a comfortable chair here in this particular spot."
"Ruth, stay just where you are! This meal is supper, not dinner, and it will be ready in the shortest possible time. Where are the men?"
"Going over the plans of our house, I suppose. Fred has worn them almost in pieces by exhibiting them so often. There seem to be a great many details to settle at the last minute. As for me, I'm perfectly satisfied, for I'm going to have a kitchen exactly like yours. Bettina, what lovely nasturtiums, and how delicious that cold sliced ham looks with more nasturtiums to garnish it!"
"Yes, and I have nasturtium leaves lining the salad bowl—and see, I'll put one large flower on each plate!"
"Don't nasturtiums always seem cool and appetizing? The whole supper looks that way!"
"Well, circus day is almost invariably warm, and people are tired when they come home, so I planned to have a cold and simple meal."