A few moments later the servant informed her that Mr.Patterson would like to see her alone.

When she entered the corridor, which in the dry season served as a reception hall, she was surprised to see that Patterson was not alone.

Near him stood a well-dressed handsome woman, gazing about her with good-humored admiration of Mrs.Tucker's taste and ingenuity.
"It don't look much like it did two years ago," said the stranger cheerfully.

"You've improved it wonderfully." Stiffening slightly, Mrs.Tucker turned inquiringly to Mr.Patterson.
But that gentleman's usual profound melancholy appeared to be intensified by the hilarity of his companion.

He only sighed deeply and rubbed his leg with the brim of his hat in gloomy abstraction.
"Well! go on, then," said the woman, laughing and nudging him.