And then Archie explained, with some little embarrassment, that he and Mattie thought of calling the following Monday and offering their services.
“That is very thoughtful of Mattie. She is such a kind-hearted little creature, and is always ready to serve everybody.” 118
And then they entered into a discussion on the new-comers that lasted so long that the tea-things made their appearance; and shortly afterwards Mr. Drummond announced that he must go and call on Mrs. Cheyne.
CHAPTER XVI.
A VISIT TO THE WHITE HOUSE.
Hitherto Mr. Drummond had acknowledged his afternoon to be a success. He had obtained a glimpse of the new-comers through Mrs. Crump’s screen of geraniums, and had listened with much interest to Colonel Middleton’s innocent gossip, while Miss Middleton had poured out their tea. Indeed, his attention had quite flattered his host.
“Really, Drummond is a very intelligent fellow,” he observed to his daughter, when they were at last left alone,—“a very intelligent fellow, and so thoroughly gentlemanly.”
“Yes, he is very nice,” returned Elizabeth; “and he seems wonderfully interested in our new neighbors.” And here she smiled a little archly.