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.




CHAPTER IV

A NEW RELATIVE


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