"Then why didn't you go to the front door and ask me properly, sir?"
"Well, I am going to, just as soon as I find out if you can come or not. You were up part of the night with your father, and I did not know but you were resting or too busy to come with me. In that case, Gussie might feel it her duty to accompany me."
"Oh, I see! I shall be most happy to accept your invitation, Mr. Traverse; so go around to the front door and ask me like a gentleman."
Shutting the gate after him, she entered the house, intending to have a little fun over the invitation.
His ring at the door was answered by Gussie, and Mr. Sherwood, who was dozing on his couch, brightened at once as he saw who was the visitor.
"A splendid morning, Traverse," was his greeting. "You are early to-day."
"Yes, I have called to see if you could spare Dexie for a drive with me this morning."
"Certainly. Gussie, hunt her up."
"Dexie is very busy this morning, papa," Gussie replied, "but I am at leisure, Mr. Traverse, if you are looking for company."