Patty had not given him any encouragement for these hopes. In fact, she was so truly in love with Farnsworth, that it never occurred to her that she could ever care less for him, or have any room in her heart for any other man. But she couldn’t seem to say this bluntly to Philip. She found it easier to let matters drift, and now, as he began to speak in praise of Farnsworth, she listened eagerly and assented and agreed to all Philip said.
“Yes, he is splendid,” she acquiesced. “I didn’t know there was such a noble nature in the world. You see, I’ve learned a lot about him since we’ve been engaged.”
“Oh, of course. Yes, old Bill is a corker for bigness in every way. I’m banking on his big nature and his broad outlook, to understand my case.”
“Now, now, you’re not to talk of ‘your case’! You promised not to.”
“With thee conversing, I forget all—promises!” misquoted Philip.
“Well, you mustn’t, or I’ll send you packing! Thank goodness, here comes Nan; _now_ will you behave yourself?”
Mrs. Fairfield came in from out-of-doors, and drew near the blazing log fire.
“Well, children, what are you discussing so seriously?” she began; “Philip, my friend, if you please, will you push that bell and let us have lights and some tea. I’ve been to three committee meetings and I’m just about exhausted. Where’s Billee-boy, Patty?”
“I’m afraid he won’t be here until after dinner. He said it was unlikely he could come before.”
“Well, try to bear it, Patty. Can’t Philip beguile you for a time?”
“Yes, he’s a great little old beguiler, Phil is!” and Patty smiled at her guest.
“Of course I am,” declared Van Reypen. “I can beguile the birds off the trees,—but _not_ Miss Patricia Fairfield, when she is waiting for her big Little Billee. Howsumever, I’ll do my best. Do I gather that I’m asked to dinner in place of the absentee?”
“You are _not_!” replied Patty, promptly, but Nan said, “Why, yes, Phil, stay. I’ll entertain you, if Patty won’t.”
“Thank you, Ma’am. That would suit me all right.”
“And how about your aviation training? When do you begin that?”
“It’s uncertain. I did expect to start for Wilmington next week, but matters are delayed by a screw loose in some of the red tape, and it may be a couple of weeks before I start.”