“It means that as soon as Father heard about—about your trouble, Anne, he just wanted to help. You can count on him for money enough to do whatever you please—for a while, anyway. Father will do anything for me, Anne. I am so glad!”
“Oh Norma!” exclaimed Nelly, glancing sidewise at Anne. She was afraid the impulsive girl would hurt her cousin’s feelings. Anne flushed a little and hesitated.
“It is awfully good of you Norma, and your Father is kind as can be,” she said. “But—but I hope I shall not have to borrow any money from—from outside my family. I have a family, you know, Norma! Nelly is my cousin and Cap’n Sackett is my grandfather. I don’t think he would want me to take money from anyone else. Would he Nelly?”
Nelly shook her head. “I don’t think so,” she said emphatically. Norma’s face fell.
“I am so disappointed,” she said. But she was wise enough not to press the point. “Well, I suppose I may as well wire Father now,” she said, turning reluctantly back towards the village. “He will be sorry. He loves to help.”
Here and there along the road a maple leaf turning red showed that the short summer was nearing its end. Blackberries were ripening above the stone walls. The birds were flitting in little groups through the treetops, keeping together, ready for their coming long flight. The golden rod stood suddenly ablaze, and the asters were putting on their royal purple.
“What a lovely road it is!” said Anne. “I never used to notice such things, but I have got new eyes this summer.”
They were about half way to Round Robin before they met Beverly. “Oh Anne!” she cried running up as soon as she saw the two cousins. “I am so glad to see you again. I have missed you awfully. I’m on my way to see old Sal. But I’ll be back before luncheon. Let’s go for a swim as soon as I get back, shall we?”
“All right,” agreed Anne, glad to be offhanded.
Beverly turned on her heel as she was just disappearing down the path, “I say, Anne,” she drawled, “don’t you make any engagements for October! I’ve written Mother already that you are to come and visit us in Virginia for at least a month. We’ll have the best time! Everybody will want you; but don’t forget I’ve asked you first.” Anne beamed upon her with pleasure. Beverly was such a dear!