“Yes, Lady Kitty,” he said, taking her hands, and smiling an acceptance of her welcome, “and so glad to see you again.” “Is Mr. Austin a long-lost brother?” asked Patty, “and if so, why have I never heard of him before?” “Yes, he’s a brother of all the world,” said Kitty; “the very dearest boy ever. I believe he lives next door to us, but he’s never there, for when he’s there he’s always here!” “Oh, is he Irish?” said Patty, and Floyd Austin’s eyes twinkled at her quick repartee. “He’s cosmopolitan,” said Sir Otho; “lives all over the world. But he’s a dear vagabond, and as long as we can keep him here, we’re going to do so.” “Not long,” said Austin, shaking his head. “I’m just down for a whiffling trip, and then off again to a summer clime.” “Oh, you can change your plans,” said Lady Kitty, easily. “I’ve known you to do it before. And I’m sure I can persuade you now, for I’ve Miss Fairfield to help me coax you.” “Oh, I’m no good at coaxing,” said saucy Patty, who was not yet quite sure that she liked this rather audacious young man. “But I’ll teach you how to coax prettily,” he said; “and then when you learn, you can coax me to do anything, and I’ll allow myself to be persuaded.” “Allow yourself indeed!” said Patty. “Probably you won’t be able to help yourself!” “Probably not,” he responded, with his unfailing concurrence. CHAPTER II A SUMMONS HOME Afternoon tea was in progress, and as a light rain had set in, it was being served in the billiard-room. This large apartment was very attractive, for aside from the purpose for which it was intended, it was admirably adapted for a cosy lounging-place. A sort of extension with roof and sides of stained glass was an ideal place for the tea-table and its many appurtenances, and except for the footman, who brought in fresh supplies, Lady Kitty and her guests waited upon themselves. Though never a large group, a few neighbours usually dropped in at tea-time, and as there were always some people staying in the house, the hour was a social one. Patty, looking very dainty in a pretty little house-dress of Dresden silk, was having a very good time. Flo Carrington, a young English girl, whom she had met only the day before, came bustling in with exclamations of dismay. “I’m nearly drowned!” she cried. “The pelting rain has ruined me frock, and I’m starving for me tea. Do give me some, dear Lady Kitty.” “You shall have it at once,” declared Patty, hovering around the tea things; “cream or lemon?” “Lemon, and two lumps. You pretty Patty-thing, I’m so glad to see you again. I’ve only known you twenty-four hours, but already I feel one-sided if you’re not by me. Sit down, and let’s indulge in pleasant conversation.” So with their teacups, the girls sat down, and being largely about their two selves, the conversation was very pleasant indeed. But soon they were interrupted, as Cadwalader Oram, a typical young Englishman, approached them.