But as Gussie hesitated about accepting, she saw Hugh turn to Dexie, and with the air of a Chesterfield ask, "May I have the pleasure of your company for the drive down, Miss Dexie?"
"Thank you, Mr. McNeil, but I daresay I am already engaged."
"No chance for you there, McNeil," said Fred Beverly, with a laugh; "Miss Dexie is spoken for already."
"Did I understand you to say that you were already engaged for the drive, Miss Dexie?" said Hugh, persistently.
"Well, Lancy has not asked me yet, but since he has promised to go, my invitation will come all in good time."
"But his team will be full. You had better take your chance with Hugh," said Fred.
"There will be room enough for me, never fear," said Dexie, smiling, "so Mr. McNeil is free to offer his services to some other forlorn damsel."
"First come, first served, Miss Dexie," said Hugh. "I asked you first; come with me," he added, bending over her chair.
"Couldn't think of it. We would be sure to quarrel all the way, and when I go to a picnic I want to enjoy every minute."
"It takes two to make a quarrel, and I'll not be one of the pair," persisted Hugh. "Come with me, and let me prove to you how much I can add to your pleasure, when you will let me."