He isn't particular what he says when he
wants to come somewhere! But Mrs. Penniman seems to think it's all
right."
"We are very glad to see him," said Catherine. And she wished to
talk more about him; but she hardly knew what to say. "I never saw
him before," she went on presently.
Arthur Townsend stared.
"Why, he told me he talked with you for over half an hour the other
night."
"I mean before the other night. That was the first time."
"Oh, he has been away from New York--he has been all round the world.
He doesn't know many people here, but he's very sociable, and he
wants to know every one."
"Every one?" said Catherine.
"Well, I mean all the good ones. All the pretty young ladies--like
Mrs. Penniman!" and Arthur Townsend gave a private laugh.
"My aunt likes him very much," said Catherine.
"Most people like him--he's so brilliant."
"He's more like a foreigner," Catherine suggested.
"Well, I never knew a foreigner!" said young Townsend, in a tone
which seemed to indicate that his ignorance had been optional.
"Neither have I," Catherine confessed, with more humility. "They say
they are generally brilliant," she added vaguely.
"Well, the people of this city are clever enough for me. I know some
of them that think they are too clever for me; but they ain't!"
"I suppose you can't be too clever," said Catherine, still with
humility.
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