“Was Gordon there by chance?”
“Oh, yes. He took me out to supper and was just as jolly and nice as he could be.”
“I am sorry to interrupt you young people,” called Mrs. Macallister from the doorway. She had strolled out into the hall to speak to her maid. “But I must remind Peggy that she has to dress for a dinner at the Pattersons’.”
“Gracious!” exclaimed Dick, in dismay, glancing at his watch. “I had no idea it was so late. Do forgive me, Mrs. Macallister, for staying so long.”
“I will, provided you promise to come and dine with us on Wednesday next, at eight o’clock.”
Peggy’s eyes seconded the invitation, and Dick accepted so joyfully that Mrs. Macallister’s eyes danced wickedly. “Count de Smirnoff is very agreeable,” she said, as Peggy left the room, “and I am indebted to Count de Morny for bringing him to see me. They had been to the drill at Fort Myer, and the Russian gave a most entertaining account of it. It is a relief to talk to him after struggling with Count de Morny’s broken English.”
“It is indeed,” agreed Dick, heartily. “Poor de Morny certainly murders the King’s English.”
“I asked Count de Smirnoff to call again,” pursued Mrs. Macallister. “I like him, and we have many mutual friends.”
“How long is he going to be here?”
“Until the Grand Duke returns to New York. Good night, Dick; come and see us soon again.”