serving-men, Patty was quite willing to accept the situation
placidly. The servants, however, were no bar to their gay chatter.
Except that they did not refer to the expected temporary chaperon,
they discussed all the details of the evening's party.

Many of the courses of the dinner they dismissed without tasting,
and so, by half-past seven, Patty was back in her own rooms, and
Mrs. Hastings appeared promptly at the hour. A maid named Janet
had been appointed to look after Patty personally, but she was
dismissed, with instructions to return at eight, and then Patty
began her transformation scene.

It was not accomplished without some few difficulties, and much
giggling, but by eight o'clock, Patty and Mona surveyed a most
acceptable looking chaperon, due to their own handiwork. Susan, or
Mrs. Hastings, as they called her, looked the picture of a kindly,
dignified matron. Her grey hair was done in a simple, becoming
fashion, and ornamented with a spray of silver tinsel leaves. The
grey satin gown of Mrs. Allen's, which Patty had appropriated
without compunction, fitted fairly well, and a fichu of old lace,
prettily draped, concealed any deficiencies. Though possessing no
elegance of manner, Susan had quiet ways, and being observant by
nature, she remembered the demeanour of ladies she had worked for,
and carried herself so well that Patty and Mona were satisfied as
to her ability to carry out their purpose.

Patty provided Mrs. Hastings with a black feather fan, and gave
her a quick lesson in the art of using it. The piece of white
knitting work proved satisfactory on inspection, and after a few
final injunctions, Patty pronounced the "chaperon" complete.