"I detest extremely grown-up people.

But what are you brooding over so darkly?
Cease those philosophical reflections in which you've been indulging--it's a positive vice with you, Penny--and give me some tea." Penelope laughed and began to pour out tea.
"I half thought Maryon Rooke might be here by now," remarked Nan, selecting a scone from the golden-brown pyramid on the plate and carefully avoiding Penelope's eyes.

"He said he might look in some time this afternoon." Penelope held the teapot arrested in mid-air.
"How condescending of him!" she commented drily.

"If he comes--then exit Penelope." "You're an ideal chaperon, Penny," murmured Nan with approval.
"Chaperons are superfluous women nowadays.

And you and Maryon are so nearly engaged that you wouldn't require one even if they weren't out of date." "Are we ?" A queer look of uncertainty showed in Nan's eyes.