CHAPTER Four.
Mr.Porter arrived on time to the minute, looking perfectly splendid in a wonderful furlined coat.

And if his eyes were anxious, and his manner a bit constrained at first, it didn't last long; Dad's greeting was too cordial, not to make him feel at home.

Indeed, he talked delightfully all through dinner, and with the coffee, half laughingly, half apologizingly told us the story of his life.

"For," said he, "although I feel as if I'd known you always," (he looked at Dad, but I was sure he meant me, too) "you may not feel the same in regard to me--and I want you to." It was sweet to see Dad grow almost boyish in his insistence that he felt as Mr.Porter did.

"Nonsense!" he said.