, she was
not especially sorry when Mr. Roland's fortune proved to be not
altogether a desirable one.

But the young man was in nowise disconcerted.

"It doesn't matter," he said, cheerfully, "I've had my fortune told lots
of times, and things always happen just contrary to what is predicted.
But I say, Miss Romany, can't you leave your post for a few minutes and
go with me to the Japanese tea place, for a cup of their refreshing
beverage?"

"Thank you ever so much," said Patty, "but I really can't leave here.
There's a whole string of people waiting for their fortunes, and I must
stand by my post. Perhaps I can go later," she added, for though she did
not care for Charlie Roland's attentions, she was too good-natured to
wish to hurt his feelings.

"I consider that a promise," said Mr. Roland, as he moved away to make
place for the next seeker after knowledge.

Patty turned to her work, and thought no more of Charlie Roland and his
undesirable invitation.

Soon Kenneth came to have his fortune told, for it had been arranged that
each booth should have plenty of attendants, in order that they might
take turns in leaving their posts and promenading about the grounds. This
was supposed to advertise their own particular nation, besides giving all
a chance to see the sights.

Kenneth's fortune proved to be a bright and happy one, but he was not
unduly elated over it, for his faith in such things was not implicit.

"Thank you," he said gravely, as Patty finished telling of the glories
which would attend his future career. "I don't think there's anything
omitted from that string of good luck, unless it's being President, and
I'm not quite sure I want to be that."

"Yes, you do," said Patty, "every good American ought to want that, if
only as a matter of patriotism."

"Well, I'm patriotic enough," said Kenneth, "and I'll want it if you want
me to want it. And now, Patty, you've worked here long enough for the
present. Let somebody else take your place, and you come with me for a
walk about the grounds. I'll take you to the pergola, and we'll buy some
flowers from Elise."

"I'd love to go, Ken, but truly I ought to stay here a while longer. Lots
of people want their fortune told, and nobody can do it but me, because I
learnt all that lingo out of a book. No, I can't go now. Run along,--I'm
busy."

Patty spoke more shortly than she meant to, for the very reason that she
wanted to go with Kenneth, but she felt it h