"Then it's because we girls don't put ourselves out to think up new and nice things to do," proclaimed Madge Steele.
"Perhaps girls are not as naturally inventive as boys," suggested
Ruth, timidly.
"I won't admit it!" cried Madge.
"At least," said the girl from the Red Mill,
"We don't want to do anything mean to them just because they were mean to us."
"Why not?" demanded Belle, in wonder.
"That wouldn't be nice—nor any fun," declared Ruth, firmly. "A joke—yes."
"Do you call it a joke on us—spoiling our taffy and stealing the nutmeats?" wailed Heavy.
"What else was it? It was a joke to them. There was a sting to it for us. We must pay them back in like manner, but without being mean bout it."
"Well now!" cried Helen. "I'd like to see you do it, Ruth."