She bit her lip in annoyance, and said, sharply, "Don't abuse the privilege of an old friend, Chick."
"I don't mean to,--honest I don't, Elise. Forgive me if I've offended you."
"Oh, you haven't. That's all right. Have you ever met this Gale girl before?"
"No; but she sat next me at dinner, and she told me about herself. It seems she has a wonderful brother--"
"She has!" It was amazing how Elise brightened up. "Why wasn't he invited this evening?"
"He's away from home just now,--will return next week,--I think she said. Get on your warpaint and feathers! See, the conquering heroine comes!"
"Stop teasing, Chick. I do like to meet strangers, and if Patty's neighbour is attractive--"
"Patty's neighbour's brother,--you mean?"
"I do! If he's attractive, it'll add to my pleasure when visiting Patty,--won't it?"
"It sure will,--and, may I say it? You'll add to his pleasure, I've no doubt."
"Very pretty, Chick. You _are_ a nice boy."
"Thank you, ma'am. But I won't be in it, when the brother appears on the scene, I fear! So, to make hay while the sun shines, won't you go in and dance with me? I hear the light fantastics tripping in the hall."
They went in and found all of the party keeping time to the gay music of the big victrola, and they joined the swaying couples.
As they passed Betty Gale and Van Reypen, Elise overheard her saying, "You're awfully good to me,--and you've only just met me to-night!"
Phil's reply was lost as they danced away, but Elise realised that it was an eager expression of his desire that they should meet again, and soon, and her demon of jealousy once more up-reared his ugly head.
But she concealed it,--outwardly, at least,--and when the time came, she was so cordial and sweet to Miss Gale that a friendship pact was sealed between them.
May came in with the sunshine and balmy days that are popularly supposed to belong to that month, but which do not always materialise.
Wistaria Porch was fairly basking in the sunshine, and the flower gardens were already showing their early blooms. The tulip beds were a blaze of bright glory and hyacinths and daffodils added their sweetness and beauty.
"Such a heavenly place!" Patty exclaimed as she and Little Billee strolled along the garden paths in the late afternoon. "I'm glad we have this week-end to ourselves,--I love to have guests, but once in a while,--you know--"