Grace Harlowe's Sophomore Year at High School
Page 23
CHAPTER XXIII
GRACE MEETS A DISTINGUISHED CHARACTER
June had come, bringing with it the trials and tribulations of finalexaminations. The days grew long and sunny. Roses nodded from every bush,but the pupils of Oakdale's two High Schools were far too busy to thinkabout the beauty of the weather. Golf, tennis, baseball and other outdoorsports were sternly put aside, and the usual season of "cramming" set in.Young faces wore an almost tragic expression, and back lessons werereviewed with desperate zeal.
Grace Harlowe had crammed as assiduously as the rest, for a day or two.She was particularly shaky on her geometry. She went over her theoremsuntil she came to triangles, then she threw the book down in disgust."What's the use of cramming?" she said to herself. "If I keep on I won'teven be able to remember that 'the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangleis equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.' I'm in amuddle over these triangles now. I'll find the girls and get them to go tothe woods with me. I really ought to collect a few more botanyspecimens."
Grace's specimens were a source of keen delight to her girlish heart. Shedidn't care so much about pressing and mounting them. It was the joy sheexperienced in being in the woods that, to her, made botany the mostfascinating of studies. She poked into secluded spots unearthing rarespecimens. Her collection was already overflowing; still she could neverresist adding just a few more.
She was doomed to disappointment as far as Nora and Jessica wereconcerned. Both girls mournfully shook their heads when invited tospecimen-hunting, declaring regretfully they were obliged to study. Annewas at Mrs. Gray's attending to the old lady's correspondence. This hadbeen her regular task since the beginning of the freshman year, and shenever failed to perform it.
"Oh, dear, I wish examinations and school were over," Grace sighedimpatiently. "I can't go to the woods alone, and I can't get any one to gowith me. I suppose I'll have to give it up and go home. No, I won't,either. I'll go as far as the old Omnibus House. There are lots of wildplants in the orchard surrounding it, and I may get some new specimens."
With her basket on her arm, Grace turned her steps in the direction of theold house. She had not been there since the day of their reunion. Shesmiled to herself as she recalled the absurdities of that occasion.
After traversing the orchard several times and finding nothing startlingin the way of specimens, Grace concluded that she might as well havestayed at home.
She walked slowly over to the steps and sat down, placing the basketbeside her. "How lonely it seems here to-day," she thought. "I wonderwhere old Jean is? I haven't seen him for an age." Then she fell to musingover the school year so nearly ended. Everything that had happened passedthrough her mind like a panorama. It had been a stormy year, full ofquarrels and bickerings, but it was about to end gloriously. Anne andMiriam had become the best of friends, while she and Julia Crosby weredaily finding out each other's good qualities There was nothing left to bedesired.
Grace started from her dream and looked at her watch. It was after sixo'clock. She had better be getting back.
She rose and reached for her basket.
Suddenly a figure loomed up before her. Grace started in surprise, to findherself facing a tall, thin man with wild, dark eyes. He stood with foldedarms, regarding her fixedly.
Grace Found Herself Facing a Tall, Thin Man.]
"Why, where----" but she got no further, for the curious new-comerinterrupted her.
"Ah, Josephine," he said, "so I have found you at last."
"My name isn't Josephine at all. It's Grace Harlowe, and you have made amistake," said Grace, endeavoring to pass him. But he barred her way,saying sadly:
"What, do you, too, pretend? Do you think I do not know you? I, your royalhusband, Napoleon Bonaparte."
"Good gracious," gasped Grace. "He's crazy as can be. How ever shall I getaway from him?"
The man heard the word "crazy" and exclaimed angrily: "How dare you callme crazy! You, of all people, should know I am sane. I have just returnedfrom Isle of St. Helena to claim my empire. For years I have been anexile, but now I am free, free." He waved his arms wildly.
"Yes, of course I know you, now," said Grace, thinking to mollify him."How strange that I didn't recognize you before."
Then she remembered reading in the paper of the preceding night of theescape of a dangerous lunatic from the state asylum, that was situated afew miles from Oakdale. This must be the man. Grace decided that heanswered the description the paper had given. She realized that she wouldhave to be careful not to anger him. It would require strategy to getclear of him.
"It's time you remembered me," returned Napoleon Bonaparte, petulantly."They told me that you had died years ago, but I knew better. Now that Ihave found you, we'd better start for France at once. Have you your courtrobes with you? And what have you done with your crown? You are dressedlike a peasant." He was disdainfully eyeing her brown, linen gown.
In spite of her danger, Grace could scarcely repress a laugh. It allseemed so ludicrous. Then a sudden thought seized her.
"You see, I have nothing fit to travel in," she said. "Suppose you waithere for me while I go back to town and get my things? then I can appearproperly at court."
"No you don't," said Napoleon promptly, a cunning expression stealing intohis face. "If you go you'll never come back. I need your influence at theroyal court, and I can't afford to lose you. I am about to conquer theworld. I should have done it long ago, if those villains hadn't exiled me,and locked me up."
He walked back and forth, muttering to himself still keeping his eye onGrace for fear that she might escape.
"Oh, what shall I do?" thought the terrified girl. "Goodness knows whathe'll think of next. He may keep me here until dark, and I shall die if Ihave to stay here until then, I must get away."
Grace knew that it would be sheer folly to try to run. Her captor wouldovertake her before she had gone six yards, not to mention the fit of rageher attempted flight would be likely to throw him into.
She anxiously scanned the neighboring fields in the hope of seeing oldJean, the hunter. He was usually not far away. But look as she might, shecould discover no sign of him. There was only one thing in her favor. Itwould be light for some time yet. Being June, the darkness would notdescend for two hours. She must escape, but how was she to do it!
She racked her brain for some means of deliverance, but received noinspiration. Again she drew out her watch. Then her eye rested for asecond on the little key that hung on her watch chain. It was the key tothe lean-to in which David kept his aeroplane. Like a flash the way wasrevealed to her. But would she be able to carry out the daring design thathad sprung into her mind? She would try, at any rate. With an unconcernthat she was far from feeling, Grace walked carelessly toward the door ofthe lean-to.
The demented man was beside her in a twinkling He clutched Grace by thearm with a force that made her catch her breath.
"What are you trying to do!" he exclaimed, glaring at her savagely."Didn't I tell you that you couldn't go away!"
He held her at arm's length with one hand, and threateningly shook hisfinger at her.
"Remember, once and for all, that I am your emperor and must be obeyed.Disregard my commands and you shall pay the penalty with your life. Whatis the life of one like you to me, when I hold the fate of nations in myhands? Perhaps it would be better to put an end to you now. Women are evergiven over to intriguing and deception. You might betray me to my enemies.Yet, I believed you loyal in the past. I----"
"Indeed I have always been loyal, my emperor," interrupted Grace eagerly."How can you doubt me?"
Her situation was becoming more precarious with every minute. She mustpersuade this terrible individual that she was necessary to his plans, ifshe wished to get away with her life.
"I have your welfare constantly at heart," she continued. "Have you everthought of flying to our beloved France? In the shed behind me is astrange ship that flies through the air. Its sails are like the wings ofa bir
d, and it flies with the speed of the wind. It waits to carry usacross the sea. It is called an aeroplane."
"I have heard of such things," said Napoleon. "When I was in exile, a foolwho came to visit me showed me a picture of one. He told me it could flylike a bird, but he lied. I believe you are lying, too," he added, lookingat her suspiciously.
"Let me prove to you that I am not," Grace answered, trying to appearcalm, though ready to collapse under the terrible strain of the part shewas being forced to play. "Do you see this key? It unlocks the door thatleads to the flying ship. Would you not like to look at it?" she saidcoaxingly.
"Very well, but be quick about it I have already wasted too much time withyou. I must be off before my enemies find me."
"You must release my arm, or I cannot unlock the door," Grace said.
"Oh, yes, you can," rejoined Napoleon, not relaxing his grip for aninstant. "Do you think I am going to run any risk of losing you?"
As she turned the key he swung her to one side, and, opening the door,peered cautiously in. For a moment he stood like a statue staring inwonder at David's aeroplane, then with a loud cry that froze the blood inGrace's veins, he threw up his arms and rushed madly into the shed,shouting, "We shall fly, fly, fly!"
With a sob of terror Grace slammed the door and turned the key. She wasnot an instant too soon. Napoleon Bonaparte reached it with a bound andthrew himself against it, uttering blood-curdling shrieks. The frightfulsounds came to Grace's ears as she tore across the field in the directionof Oakdale. Terror lent wings to her feet. Every second was precious. Shedid not know how long the door would stand against the frantic assaults ofthe maniac.
She had reached the road, when, to her joy and relief, she beheld half adozen men approaching. Stumbling blindly toward them, she panted out: "Thecrazy man--I--locked--him--in--the Omnibus House. Here--is--the key." Shegave a long, shuddering sigh, and for the first time in her life sturdyGrace Harlowe fainted.
The men picked her up tenderly.
"Here, Hampton," said one of them, "take this child over to the nearesthouse. She is all in. By George, I wonder whether she has locked thatlunatic up? Something has certainly upset her. We'd better get over thereright away and see what we can find out."
The man addressed as Hampton picked Grace up as though she had been ababy and carried her to a house a little further up the road.
Meanwhile the men hurried on, arriving at the Omnibus House just asNapoleon succeeded in breaking down the door. Before he could elude them,he was seized by five pairs of stalwart arms. He fought like a tiger,making it difficult to bind him. This was finally accomplished though theywere obliged to carry him, for he had to be tied up like a papoose to keephim from doing damage. He raved continually over the duplicity ofJosephine, threatening dire vengeance when he should find her.
When Grace came to herself she looked about her in wonder. She was lyingon a comfortable couch in a big, cheerful sitting room. A kindly facedwoman was bathing her temples, while a young girl chafed her hands.
"Where am I?" said Grace feebly. "Did Napoleon get out?"
"Lie still and rest, my dear," said Mrs. Forrest, "Don't try to exertyourself."
Grace sat up and looked about her. "Oh, I know what happened. I fainted.How silly of me. I never did that in my life before. I had a terriblescare, but I'm all right now."
The man who had carried her to the house came forward.
"My name is Hampton, miss. I am a guard over at the asylum. Those othermen you saw are employed there, too. We were looking for one of our peoplewho escaped night before last. He nearly killed his keeper. He's the worstpatient we have out there. Thinks he's Napoleon. Judging from your fright,I guess you must have met him. Did you really lock him in that old house?"
"Indeed I did," answered Grace, who was rapidly recovering from theeffects of her fright. "He took me for the Empress Josephine." She relatedall that had happened, ending with the way she locked his emperorship in.
"Well, all I've got to say is that you're the pluckiest girl I ever cameacross," said the man admiringly, when Grace had finished.
But she shook her head.
"I never was so frightened in my life before. I shall never forget hisscreams."
It was after eight o'clock when Grace Harlowe arrived at her own door. Theman Hampton had insisted on calling a carriage, so Grace rode home instate. As she neared the house she saw that the lawn and porch were fullof people.
"What on earth is the matter!" she asked herself. As she alighted from thecarriage her mother rushed forward and took her in her arms.
"My darling child," she sobbed. "What a narrow escape you have had. Youmust never, never wander off alone again."
"Why, mother, how did you know anything about it?"
"When you didn't come home to supper I felt worried, for you had not toldme that you were invited anywhere. Then Nora came down to see you, andseemed surprised not to find you at home. She said you had gone on aspecimen hunt after school. I became frightened and sent your father outat once to look for you. He met the keepers with that dreadful man," saidMrs. Harlowe, shuddering, "and they described you, telling him where youwere and how they had met you. Your father went straight out to theForrests. I suppose you just missed him."
Grace hugged her mother tenderly. "Don't worry, mother. I'm all right.What are all these people standing around for?"
"They came to see you, of course. The news is all over town. Everyone isdevoured with curiosity to hear your story."
"It looks as though I had become a celebrity at last," laughed Grace.
She was obliged to tell the story of her adventure over and over againthat night to her eager listeners. Her chums hung about her adoringly.Hippy, Reddy and David were fairly beside themselves.
"Oh, you lunatic snatcher," cried Hippy, throwing up his hat to expresshis feelings.
"You never dreamed that the little key you gave me would prove mysalvation," said Grace to David, as her friends bade her good night. "Itsurely must have been fate."
CHAPTER XXIV
COMMENCEMENT
Examinations had ceased to be bug-bears and kill joys to the young idea ofOakdale. The last paper had been looked over, and the anxious hearts ofthe majority of the High School pupils had been set at rest. In most casesthere was general rejoicing over the results of the final test. Marks werecompared and plans for the next year's course of study discussed.
The juniors were about to come into their own. When the present seniorshad been handed their diplomas, and Miss Thompson and Mr. Cole had wishedthem god-speed, the present juniors would start on the home stretch thatended in commencement, and a vague awakening to the real duties of life.
The senior class stood for the time being in the limelight of publicattention. It was the observed of all observers. Teas were given in honorof its various members, and bevies of young girls in dainty summer apparelbrightened the streets of Oakdale, during the long sunny afternoons.
It was truly an eventful week. Grace Harlowe gave a tea in honor of EthelPost, which was a marked social success. The two girls had becomethoroughly well acquainted over their golf and had received great benefitfrom each other's society. Miss Post's calm philosophical view of life hada quieting effect on impulsive Grace, while Grace's energy andwhole-hearted way of diving into things proved a stimulus to the oldergirl.
It was Tuesday afternoon and class day. High School girls in gala attirewere seen hurrying up the broad walk leading to the main door of theschool building.
It was the day of all days, to those about to graduate. Of course,receiving one's diploma was the most important feature, but class day laynearest the heart.
The exercises were to be held in the gymnasium.
The junior and senior classes had brought in half the woods to beautifythe big room, and Oakdale gardens had been ruthlessly forced to give uptheir wealth of bud and bloom in honor of the occasion.
It was customary for the seniors to invite the junior class, who alwayssat in
a body at one side of the gymnasium; while the seniors sat on theopposite side. The rest of the space was given up to the families of theseniors and their friends. Lucky, indeed, were those who could obtain aninvitation to this most characteristic of class functions.
The four girl chums had been among the fortunate recipients ofinvitations. A very pretty picture they made as they followed the usher,one of the junior class, to their seats.
Grace wore a gown of pale blue organdie that was a marvel of sheerdaintiness. Jessica, a fetching little affair of white silk muslinsprinkled with tiny pink rosebuds; while Anne and Nora were resplendent inwhite lingerie gowns. Anne's frock was particularly beautiful and thegirls had exclaimed with delight over it when they first caught sight ofher.
It was a present from Mrs. Gray, Anne told them. She had fully expected towear her little white muslin, but the latter had grown rather shabby andshe felt ashamed of it. Then a boy appeared with a big box addressed toher. Wrapped in fold after fold of tissue paper lay the exquisite newgown. Pinned to one sleeve was a note from Mrs. Gray, asking her to acceptthe gift in memory of the other Anne--Mrs. Gray's young daughter--who hadpassed away years ago. There were tears in Anne's eyes as she told themabout it, the girls agreeing with her that there was no one in the worldquite so utterly dear as Mrs. Gray.
"I'm glad we're early," whispered Nora. "We can watch the classes come in.See, that place is for the juniors. It is roped off with their colors andthe other side belongs to the seniors."
"How fine the gym. looks," remarked Anne. "They certainly must have workedhard to fix it up so beautifully."
"Julia Crosby is largely responsible for it," answered Grace. "She has themost original ideas about decorations and things. You know the juniorsalways decorate for the seniors. It's a sacred duty."
"Did you know that Julia was elected president of her class?" askedJessica.
"Oh, yes," said Grace, "she told me about it the other day. Oh, girls,here they come! Doesn't Ethel Post look sweet? There's Julia at the headof her class."
"It is certainly great to be a graduate," sighed Nora.
"Speaking of graduation," said Grace, "did you know that David has put offhis graduation for another year! He wished to finish school with Hippy andReddy. They have planned to enter the same college. So our little crowdwill be together for one more year."
"How nice of him," cried the girls.
"Yes, isn't it! I'll be awfully sorry when my turn comes," respondedGrace. "I'm sure I shall never care for college as I do for this dear oldschool."
"You can't tell until you've tried it," said Nora wisely.
The two classes had now seated themselves, and an expectant hush fell uponthose assembled. The first number on the program was a song by the seniorglee club. This was followed by the salutatory address, given by a talldignified senior. The class poem came next, and was received withenthusiasm. The other numbers followed in rapid succession, each beingapplauded to the echo. The class grinds were hailed with keen relish. Eachgirl solemnly rose to take her medicine in the form of mild ridicule oversome past harmless folly.
The class prophecy provoked ripples of merriment from the audience.
Grace chuckled with glee at the idea of exclusive Ethel Post becoming theproprietor of a moving-picture show at Coney Island. The futuresprophesied for the other members of the class were equally remarkable fortheir impossibility.
At last nothing remained but the senior charge and the junior reply. Thepresident of the senior class rose, and facing the juniors poured forthher final words of advice and counsel. She likened them to a baby inswaddling clothes, and cautioned them to be careful about standing ontheir feet too early. It was the usual patronizing speech so necessary toclass day.
Julia Crosby smiled a little as the senior exhorted her hearers to neverforget the dignity of their station. She was thinking of the day shecrashed into that young woman, in the corridor. The senior president hadmanifested the dignity of her station then.
Julia straightened her face and stepped forward to make her reply. Shethanked the president for her solicitude and tender counsel. She humblyacknowledged that the juniors were helpless infants, entirely innocent ofthe wicked world. They realized that they needed proper nourishment andexercise. There was one consolation however, they were daily growinglarger and wiser, and their lungs were strong. If all went well they hopedto be healthy, well-grown seniors, capable of giving sage advice to thosewho would follow them.
Grace's face was full of eager appreciation as she listened to Julia'sclever speech. How greatly she had changed, and what a power she would bein her class during the senior year. Grace felt that her sophomore year,though dark in the beginning, was about to end in a blaze of glory.
Julia sat down amid demonstrations of approval. Then the first notes of"Auld Lang Syne" sounded on the piano, and the entire audience, led by thesenior glee club, rose to their feet to join in that sweetest of old songswhose plaintive melody causes heart strings to tighten and eyes to fill.
The four chums silently joined hands as they sang, and mentally resolvedthat with them "auld acquaintance" should never "be forgot."
There was a second's pause after the song was done. Then clear on the airrose the senior class yell. That broke the spell. Those who had felt lumpsrising in their throats at the music, laughed. A buzz of conversationbegan, and soon the graduates were surrounded by their families andfriends.
The gymnasium gradually cleared. The seniors hurried off to their banqueton the lawn and one more class day glided off to find its place with thoseof the past.
"Wasn't it perfectly lovely?" sighed Jessica, as they made their way out.
"I think commencement week has even more thrills in it than Christmas,"Nora replied. "Wait till we have our class day. You shall write the classpoem, Anne, and Jessica the song."
"I speak for the class prophecy," said Grace.
"That leaves nothing for me but the grinds. But that job would be greatlyto my taste," said Nora.
"What about the rest of the class?" inquired Anne, smiling at thismonopoly of class honors. "Are we to carry off all the glory!"
"Without a doubt," Jessica answered. "After us there are no more."
"Be sure to come to my house for supper Thursday evening," said Grace. "Weare to go to commencement together, you know. The boys are coming, too."
The chums parted with many expressions of satisfaction over the pleasantafternoon's entertainment.
Thursday evening found them impatiently awaiting the boys.
"I suppose they all stopped to fuss and prink," said Nora, as she peeredthrough the vines that screened the porch. "Men are, truly, vainer thangirls. There they come around the corner, now. I really believe Hippy isgrowing fatter. He looks awfully nice to-night, though," she hastilyadded.
Hippy had a friend in Nora.
"Did you know that Tom Gray is in town?" asked David, as he took his placebeside Anne and Grace. The latter carried an immense bouquet of red rosesto give to Ethel Post.
"Oh, how nice!" exclaimed Grace. "I suppose he'll be there to-night withdear Mrs. Gray."
"Yes, they are going," said David. "I don't believe Mrs. Gray has missed acommencement for the last twenty years."
"I wonder who'll get the freshman prize this year?" mused Grace. "I hopeit goes to some girl who really needs it. I know one thing; there will beno claimant for the hundred dollar prize this year. Anne broke therecord."
"Indeed she did," said David, looking fondly at Anne. "To be in companywith Oakdale's star prize winner is a great honor."
"Oh, don't," said Anne who hated compliments.
"Very well, if you spurn the truth," replied David. "By the way, I have aninvitation to deliver. Miriam wants all of you to come up to our house theminute the exercises are over to-night. Never mind if it is late.Commencement comes but once a year."
"De-lighted," chorused the chums.
"Hush," said Hippy. "Make no uproar. We are about to enter the sacredprecincts of A
ssembly Hall. I feel that on account of my years ofexperience I must make myself responsible for the behavior of youchildren. Smother that giggle, Nora O'Malley," he commanded, looking atNora with an expression of severity that set oddly on his fat,good-natured face.
This made the whole party laugh, and Hippy declared, disgustedly, that heconsidered them quite ignorant of the first principles of good behavior.
They were seated in the hall at last, and for the next two hours listenedwith serious attention to the essays and addresses of the graduates.
Grace had sent Ethel Post her roses as soon as she entered the hall, andhad the pleasure of seeing them in her friend's hands.
The diplomas were presented, and the freshman prize given out. It was wonby a shy-looking little girl with big, pleading, brown eyes. Grace watchedher closely as she walked up to receive it and resolved to find out moreabout her.
"She looks as though she needed friends," was her mental comment.
Anne, too, felt drawn toward the slender little girl. She recalled herfreshman commencement and her total collapse after the race had been won.
"I hope that little girl has friends as good and true as mine," shewhispered to Grace.
"Don't you think she looks lonely?" Grace asked.
"She surely does," returned Anne. "Let's find out all about her."
"Done," Grace replied.
As soon as the exercises were over the young people hurried over to whereTom Gray and his aunt stood talking with friends.
"Well, well," sighed the old lady joyously, "here are all my own children.I am so glad to see you. I understand that I am too late with myinvitation for an after gathering. Miriam has forestalled me," she added,placing her arm around Miriam, whose face glowed with pleasure at thecaress.
"She has invited me, too, so I am not to complain. As many as there areroom can ride in my carriage. The rest will have go in Tom's."
"Tom's?" was the cry, "When did he acquire a carriage?"
"Come and see it," was Tom's reply.
They all trooped out, Hippy leading the van.
"I wish to be the first to look upon the miracle," he cried.
"It's a peach," he shouted, as the others came up, and he was right.
"O Tom, isn't it great?" Grace exclaimed.
Directly in front of Mrs. Gray's carriage stood a handsome Packard car.
"Aunt Rose gave it to me, to-day," he explained, his face glowing. "Ithas been waiting a week for me. Come on, everybody, and we'll get up steamand fly to Nesbit's."
Of course every one wanted to ride in the new car. David and Anne decided,however, to go with Mrs. Gray, and with a honk! honk! the automobile wasoff.
The Nesbit home was ablaze with light. Mrs. Nesbit stood in the wide hallwaiting to receive Miriam's guests.
"The first thing to do is to find food," declared David, leading the wayto the dining room.
The whole party exclaimed with admiration at the tastefully decoratedtable. A huge favor pie in the shape of a deep red rose ornamented thecenter, the ribbons reaching to each one's place. There were pretty,hand-painted place cards, too, tied with red and gold, the sophomorecolors.
Mrs. Gray occupied the place of honor at the head of the table. She wasfairly overflowing with happiness and good cheer, as she beamed on firstone and then another of her children.
The young people did ample justice to the delicious repast served them.The favor pie created much amusement, as the favors were chosen to suitthe particular personality of each guest. After every one had finishedeating, a season of toasts followed.
"Here's to dear Mrs. Gray," said David, raising his glass of fruit punch,"May she live to be one hundred years old, and grow younger every day.Drink her down."
Mrs. Gray proposed a toast to Mrs. Nesbit, which was drunk withenthusiasm. Presently every one had been toasted, then Miriam rose andbegged permission to speak.
It was unanimously granted.
"I suppose you all think I invited you here to-night for the expresspurpose of having a good time," she said. "So I did. But now that you arehere, I want to talk to you about a plan that I hope you will like. Itrests with you whether or not it materializes. You know that we have acottage at Lake George, although we do not always spend our summers there.But I want to go there this year, and you can make it possible for me todo so."
"We'll carry your luggage and put you on the train, if that will help youout any," volunteered Hippy.
Miriam laughed. "That isn't enough," she said. "I want every one of you togo, too, Now don't say a word until I'm through. Mother has given herconsent to a house party, and will chaperon us. Don't one of you refuse,for I shall pay no attention to you. You simply must come. We are tostart next Tuesday, and stay as long as we like. So you'll have to makeyour preparations in a hurry. We'll meet at the station next Tuesdaymorning at 9.30. That's all."
Then what a babble arose. Grace and Nora were in high glee over theproposed trip. They were sure of going. Anne was rather dubious at first,but Grace overruled her objections, and made fun of Jessica for saying shehad promised to visit her aunt.
"Go and visit your aunt afterwards, Jessica. Remember, she is a secondarymatter when compared to us," she said laughingly.
"I shall take my car," said Tom. "That will help things along."
"Mother has promised me one," remarked David, "so we'll have plenty ofmeans of conveyance.
"How sorry I am that you can't go, too, Aunt Rose," exclaimed Tomregretfully.
"Nonsense," replied his aunt, "you don't want an old woman at your heelsall the time. Besides, I must visit my brother in California this summer.I haven't seen him for several years."
"Let's drink to the success of the house party," cried Reddy, "and pledgeourselves to be on time next Tuesday morning. Drink her down."
When next we meet our Oakdale boys and girls, they will have returned totheir books after a long happy summer. In "GRACE HARLOWE'S JUNIOR YEAR ATHIGH SCHOOL"; Or, "FAST FRIENDS IN THE SORORITIES," the girl chums willappear as members of a High School sorority. Here the reader will make theacquaintance of Eleanor Savell, a clever but exceedingly wilful girl,whose advent in Oakdale High School brings about a series of happeningsthat make the story one of absorbing interest. The doings of a rivalsorority, organized by Eleanor, the contest for dramatic honors betweenEleanor and Anne Pierson and the mischievous plot against the latteroriginated by the former and frustrated by Grace Harlowe, are among thefeatures that will hold the attention and cement the reader's friendshipfor the girl chums.
THE END
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By H. IRVING HANCOCK
The keynote of these books is manliness. The stories are wonderfullyentertaining, and they are at the same
time sound and wholesome. No boywill willingly lay down an unfinished book in this series.
1 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB OF THE KENNEBEC; Or, The Secret of Smugglers' Island.
2 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB AT NANTUCKET; Or, The Mystery of the Dunstan Heir.
3 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB OFF LONG ISLAND; Or, A Daring Marine Game at Racing Speed.
4 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB AND THE WIRELESS; Or, The Dot, Dash and Dare Cruise.
5 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB IN FLORIDA; Or, Laying the Ghost of Alligator Swamp.
6 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB AT THE GOLDEN GATE; Or, A Thrilling Capture in the Great Fog.
7 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB ON THE GREAT LAKES; Or, The Flying Dutchman of the Big Fresh Water.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The Range and Grange Hustlers
By FRANK GEE PATCHIN
Have you any idea of the excitements, the glories of life on great ranchesin the West? Any bright boy will "devour" the books of this series, oncehe has made a start with the first volume.
1 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS ON THE RANCH; Or, The Boy Shepherds of the Great Divide.
2 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS' GREATEST ROUND-UP; Or, Pitting Their Wits Against a Packers' Combine.
3 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS ON THE PLAINS; Or, Following the Steam Plows Across the Prairie.
4 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS AT CHICAGO; Or, The Conspiracy of the Wheat Pit.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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Submarine Boys Series
By VICTOR G. DURHAM
These splendid books for boys and girls deal with life aboard submarinetorpedo boats, and with the adventures of the young crew, and possess, inaddition to the author's surpassing knack of story-telling, a greateducational value for all young readers.
1 THE SUBMARINE BOYS ON DUTY; Or, Life on a Diving Torpedo Boat.
2 THE SUBMARINE BOYS' TRIAL TRIP; Or, "Making Good" as Young Experts.
3 THE SUBMARINE BOYS AND THE MIDDIES; Or, The Prize Detail at Annapolis.
4 THE SUBMARINE BOYS AND THE SPIES; Or, Dodging the Sharks of the Deep.
5 THE SUBMARINE BOYS' LIGHTNING CRUISE; Or, The Young Kings of the Deep.
6 THE SUBMARINE BOYS FOR THE FLAG; Or, Deeding Their Lives to Uncle Sam.
7 THE SUBMARINE BOYS AND THE SMUGGLERS; Or, Breaking Up the New Jersey Customs Frauds.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The Square Dollar Boys Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
The reading boy will be a voter within a few years; these books are boundto make him think, and when he casts his vote he will do it moreintelligently for having read these volumes.
1 THE SQUARE DOLLAR BOYS WAKE UP; Or, Fighting the Trolley Franchise Steal.
2 THE SQUARE DOLLAR BOYS SMASH THE RING; Or, In the Lists Against the Crooked Land Deal.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The College Girls Series
By JESSIE GRAHAM FLOWER, A.M.
1 GRACE HARLOWE'S FIRST YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE.
2 GRACE HARLOWE'S SECOND YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE.
3 GRACE HARLOWE'S THIRD YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE.
4 GRACE HARLOWE'S FOURTH YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE.
5 GRACE HARLOWE'S RETURN TO OVERTON CAMPUS.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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Pony Rider Boys Series
By FRANK GEE PATCHIN
These tales may be aptly described as the best books for boys and girls.
1 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE ROCKIES; Or, The Secret of the Lost Claim.--2 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN TEXAS; Or, The Veiled Riddle of the Plains.--3 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN MONTANA; Or, The Mystery of the Old Custer Trail.--4 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE OZARKS; Or, The Secret of Ruby Mountain.--5 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE ALKALI; Or, Finding a Key to the Desert Maze.--6 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN NEW MEXICO; Or, The End of the Silver Trail.--7 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE GRAND CANYON; Or, The Mystery of Bright Angel Gulch.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The Boys of Steel Series
By JAMES R. MEARS
Each book presents vivid picture of this great industry. Each story isfull of adventure and fascination.
1 THE IRON BOYS IN THE MINES; Or, Starting at the Bottom of the Shaft.--2 THE IRON BOYS AS FOREMEN; Or, Heading the Diamond Drill Shift.--3 THE IRON BOYS ON THE ORE BOATS; Or, Roughing It on the Great Lakes.--4 THE IRON BOYS IN THE STEEL MILLS; Or, Beginning Anew in the Cinder Pits.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The Madge Morton Books
By AMY D.V. CHALMERS
1 MADGE MORTON--CAPTAIN OF THE MERRY MAID.
2 MADGE MORTON'S SECRET.
3 MADGE MORTON'S TRUST.
4 MADGE MORTON'S VICTORY.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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West Point Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
The principal characters in these narratives are manly, young Americanswhose doings will inspire all boy readers.
1 DICK PRESCOTT'S FIRST YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Two Chums in the Cadet Gray.
2 DICK PRESCOTT'S SECOND YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Finding the Glory of the Soldier's Life.
3 DICK PRESCOTT'S THIRD YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Standing Firm for Flag and Honor.
4 DICK PRESCOTT'S FOURTH YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Ready to Drop the Gray for Shoulder Straps.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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Annapolis Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
The Spirit of the new Navy is delightfully and truthfully depicted inthese volumes.
1 DAVE DARRIN'S FIRST YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Two Plebe Midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy.
2 DAVE DARRIN'S SECOND YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Two Midshipmen as Naval Academy "Youngsters."
3 DAVE DARRIN'S THIRD YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Leaders of the Second Class Midshipmen.
4 DAVE DARRIN'S FOURTH YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Headed for Graduation and the Big Cruise.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
* * * * *
The Young Engineers Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
The heroes of these stories are known to readers of the High School BoysSeries. In this new series Tom Reade and Harry Hazelton prove worthy ofall the traditions of Dick & Co.
1 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN COLORADO; Or, At Railroad Building in Earnest.
2 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN ARIZONA; Or, Laying Tracks on the "Man-Killer" Quicksand.
3 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN NEVADA; Or, Seeking Fortune on the Turn of a Pick,
4 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN MEXICO; Or, Fighting the Mine Swindlers.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
* * * * *
Boys of the Army Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
These books breathe the life and spirit of the United States Army ofto-day, and the life, just as it is, is described by a master pen.
1 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS IN THE RANKS; Or, Two Recruits in the United States Army.
2 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS ON FIELD
DUTY; Or, Winning Corporal's Chevrons.
3 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS AS SERGEANTS; Or, Handling Their First Real Commands.
4 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS IN THE PHILIPPINES; Or, Following the Flag Against the Moros.
(_Other volumes to follow rapidly._)
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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Battleship Boys Series
By FRANK GEE PATCHIN
These stories throb with the life of young Americans on to-day's huge drabDreadnaughts.
1 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS AT SEA; Or, Two Apprentices in Uncle Sam's Navy.
2 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS FIRST STEP UPWARD; Or, Winning Their Grades as Petty Officers.
3 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS IN FOREIGN SERVICE; Or, Earning New Ratings in European Seas.
4 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS IN THE TROPICS; Or, Upholding the American Flag in a Honduras Revolution.
(_Other volumes to follow rapidly._)
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The Meadow-Brook Girls Series
By JANET ALDRIDGE
Real live stories pulsing with the vibrant atmosphere of outdoor life.
1 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS UNDER CANVAS.
2 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS ACROSS COUNTRY.
3 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS AFLOAT.
4 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS IN THE HILLS.
5 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS BY THE SEA.
6 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS ON THE TENNIS COURTS.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
* * * * *
High School Boys Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
In this series of bright, crisp books a new note has been struck. Boys ofevery age under sixty will be interested in these fascinating volumes.
1 THE HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMEN; Or, Dick & Co.'s First Year Pranks and Sports.
2 THE HIGH SCHOOL PITCHER; Or, Dick & Co. on the Gridley Diamond.
3 THE HIGH SCHOOL LEFT END; Or, Dick & Co. Grilling on the Football Gridiron.
4 THE HIGH SCHOOL CAPTAIN OF THE TEAM; Or, Dick & Co. Leading the Athletic Vanguard.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
* * * * *
Grammar School Boys Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
This series of stories, based on the actual doings of grammar school boys,comes near to the heart of the average American boy.
1 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS OF GRIDLEY; Or, Dick & Co. Start Things Moving.
2 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS SNOWBOUND; Or, Dick & Co. at Winter Sports.
3 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS IN THE WOODS; Or, Dick & Co. Trail Fun and Knowledge.
4 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS IN SUMMER ATHLETICS; Or, Dick & Co. Make Their Fame Secure.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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High School Boys' Vacation Series
By H. IRVING HANCOCK
"Give us more Dick Prescott books!"
This has been the burden of the cry from young readers of the countryover. Almost numberless letters have been received by the publishers,making this eager demand; for Dick Prescott, Dave Darrin, Tom Reade, andthe other members of Dick & Co. are the most popular high school boys inthe land. Boys will alternately thrill and chuckle when reading thesesplendid narratives.
1 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' CANOE CLUB; Or, Dick & Co.'s Rivals on Lake Pleasant.
2 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS IN SUMMER CAMP; Or, The Dick Prescott Six Training for the Gridley Eleven.
3 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' FISHING TRIP; Or, Dick & Co. in the Wilderness.
4 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' TRAINING HIKE; Or, Dick & Co. Making Themselves "Hard as Nails."
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The Circus Boys Series
By EDGAR B.P. DARLINGTON
Mr. Darlington's books breathe forth every phase of an intenselyinteresting and exciting life.
1 THE CIRCUS BOYS ON THE FLYING RINGS; Or, Making the Start in the Sawdust Life.
2 THE CIRCUS BOYS ACROSS THE CONTINENT; Or, Winning New Laurels on the Tanbark.
3 THE CIRCUS BOYS IN DIXIE LAND; Or, Winning the Plaudits of the Sunny South.
4 THE CIRCUS BOYS ON THE MISSISSIPPI; Or, Afloat with the Big Show on the Big River.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
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The High School Girls Series
By JESSIE GRAHAM FLOWER, A.M.
These breezy stories of the American High School Girl take the readerfairly by storm.
1 GRACE HARLOWE'S PLEBE YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, The Merry Doings of the Oakdale Freshman Girls.
2 GRACE HARLOWE'S SOPHOMORE YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, The Record of the Girl Chums in Work and Athletics.
3 GRACE HARLOWE'S JUNIOR YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, Fast Friends in the Sororities.
4 GRACE HARLOWE'S SENIOR YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, The Parting of the Ways.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.
* * * * *
The Automobile Girls Series
By LAURA DENT CRANE
No girl's library--no family book-case can be considered at all completeunless it contains these sparkling twentieth-century books.
1 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT NEWPORT; Or, Watching the Summer Parade.--2 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS IN THE BERKSHIRES; Or, The Ghost of Lost Man's Trail.--3 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS ALONG THE HUDSON; Or, Fighting Fire in Sleepy Hollow.--4 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT CHICAGO; Or, Winning Out Against Heavy Odds.--5 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH; Or, Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies.--6 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT WASHINGTON; Or, Checkmating the Plots of Foreign Spies.
Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, 50c.