Page:Herbert Jenkins - Patricia Brent Spinster.djvu/252

 farthest from Miss Wangle and Mrs. Mosscrop-Smythe. Patricia followed her wearily.

"I've just snubbed those two women," announced Miss Brent, as she seated herself in a basket-chair that squeaked protestingly.

"There were indications of electricity in the air," remarked Patricia calmly.

"I want to have a serious talk with you, Patricia," said Miss Brent in her best it's-my-duty-cost-it-what-it-may manner.

"How can anyone be serious in this heat?" protested Patricia.

"I owe it to your poor dear father to"

"This debtor and creditor business is killing romance," murmured Patricia.

"I have your welfare to consider," proceeded Miss Brent. "I"

"Don't you think you've done enough mischief already, Aunt Adelaide?" enquired Patricia coolly.

"Mischief! I?" exclaimed Miss Brent in astonishment.

Patricia nodded.

"As your sole surviving relative it is my duty"

"Don't you think," interrupted Patricia, "that just for once you could neglect your duty? Sin is wonderfully exhilarating."

"Patricia!" almost shrieked Miss Brent, horror in her eyes. "Are you mad?"

"No," replied Patricia, "only a little weary."