The question was put to Elmore. Mr. Patterson glared.
"Gladys, I want you to come with me to the theatre to-night."
"My dear dad, this is the first time I've heard of it--and, if you don't mind, I'd much rather not. One can go to the theatre any night, but one can't discover that one has a cousin, and meet him for the first time, every day. I'd much rather Rodney would come to dine. Won't you?"
Again the question was put to Elmore.
"I'd be very glad to come--with Mr. Patterson's permission."
"You hear, dad? He'll come, with your permission. Nothing would please you more than that he should come, would it?"
The father looked into the daughter's eyes, seeming to see something in them which kept him from uttering words which were at the tip of his tongue. He spoke gruffly.
"Perhaps he has an engagement."
"Have you?"
"Not any."