enedick, Frame and
Company, father's financial people? Quite a presentable young man he is
of the best Yale type, which is saying something. Larry and he have tied
up to each other in quite a touching way. In the office, too, Larry has
found his place. He captured old Scread the very first day by working
out some calculations that had been allowed to accumulate, using some
method of his own which quite paralysed the old chap. Oh, he has a way
with him, that Canadian boy! Father, too, has fallen for him. To hear
him talk you would imagine that he fully intended handing over ere long
the business to Larry's care. The Mater has adopted him as well, but
with reservations. Of course, what is troubling her is her dread of a
Canadian invasion of her household, especially--'um um--" At this point
Mr. Dean Wakeham read a portion of the letter to himself with slightly
heightened colour. "'While as for Elfie, he has captured her, baggage
and bones. The little monkey apparently lives only for him. While as for
Larry, you would think that the office and the family were the merest
side issues in comparison with the kid. All the same it is very
beautiful to see them together. At times you would think they were
the same age and both children. At other times she regards him with
worshipful eyes and drinks in his words as if he were some superior
being and she his equal in age and experience. She has taken possession
of him, and never hesitates to carry him off to her own quarters,
apparently to his delight. Oh, he has a way with him, that Canadian
boy! The latest is that he has invited Elfie to stay a month with him in
Alberta when he gets his first holiday. He has raved to her over Polly.
Elfie, I believe, has accepted his invitation regardless of the wishes
of either family. The poor little soul is really better, I believe,
for his companionship. She is not so fretful and she actually takes her
medicine without a fight and goes to bed at decent hours upon the merest
hint of his Lordship's desire in the matter. In short, he has the family
quite prostrate before him. I alone have been able to stand upright and
maintain my own individuality.'"

"I am really awfully glad about the kid," said Dean. "After all she
really has rather a hard time. She is so delicate and needs extra care
and attention, and that, I am afraid, has spoiled her a bit."

"Why shouldn't the little girl spend a few weeks with us here this
summer, Mr. Wakeham?" said M