where I can walk in and know I'm welcome whether you're at home or not."

"All the more reason for coming to the party, Tom."

"Ah-h-h! If only you understood!"

He wagged his head and one finger at her in his half-amused paternal
manner that would often win for him when all else failed. But this time
it did not work.

"I don't care for half-friends, Tom. If you expect to be welcome at my
house you must come to my parties when I ask you."

"Lady, lady!"

"I mean it."

"Oh, very well. I'll come. I've protested. That absolves me. And my
hide's thick. It takes more than just a snub or two--or three to knock
my number down! Am I to bring Trotters?"

"Certainly. Trotters is my friend too. I count on him to do his tricks and
help entertain."

"They'll say of you, ma'am, afterward that you don't know better than
ask Tripe and his vulgar dog to meet nice people."

"They'll be right, Tom. I don't know better. I hope they'll say it to me,
that's all."