m to greater heights of
song than he could attain without her influence.

He had assured her of this, and she began to think it might be so.

The supper followed the program. This was not enjoyed by Patty.
Usually, after a dance or concert, she was hungry for some light
refreshment, but in this incense-laden, smoke-heavy atmosphere, she
felt no desire to eat, and had she done so, she could not have relished
the viands. For they were of highly-spiced and foreign-flavoured
sorts, and their principal ingredients were smoked fish, pungent
sauces, and strong cheese, all of which Patty detested. Moreover, the
service was far from dainty. The heavy china, thick glass, and
battered, unreal silver detracted still further from the appetising
effects of the feast.

But everybody was so genuinely distressed at Patty's lack of appetite
and made such to-do about it, that she forced herself to eat, and even
essayed a cup of their muddy, syrupy coffee.

And she enjoyed herself. She absorbed much of their jargon and stored
it up in her brain for future use. She unconsciously adapted herself
to their mannerisms and whimsical enthusiasm, and when she went home
everybody praised her and declared her one of them and the best of them.

"By far the best," said Blaney, as he tucked her into the Fairfield
limousine which, with an accompanying maid, had been sent for her.
"And may I call soon, and reiterate this,--in better and longer lines?"

"Yes, do," said Patty. "I'd love to have you."

Nan was waiting up for her.

"Well, I've seen your new friend?" she said, as Patty flung off her
wrap and stood for a moment by the library table.

"Yep," said Patty, smiling, "and sumpum tells me, Nan, that you're
going to be disagreeable or disapproving or disappointed or
dis--something or other about him. And I beg of you to don't,--at
least until I get a bite of supper. I couldn't eat their old
delicatessen shop stuff, and I want a decent sandwich and a glass of
milk,--so I do."

"Why, you poor child! I'll get it for you. Cook has gone to bed, but
I'll forage in the pantry."

"Do, that's a fairy stepmother. Bring some fruit, too, please."

Patty went up to her room, and when Nan appeared, shortly, with a most
attractive supper tray, she was in kimono and cap, waiting for it.

"My, but this is good! I tell you, Nan, those Cosmickers know how to
think, but they don't know a thing about foods."

"Your Blaney looks well nourished