Now Jess, like other girls, had no mind to wait a week for something she wanted very much indeed.
"It may pour rain all next week," she declared. "I'm going to ask if we can go to-morrow."
When the three mothers heard about Blackberry Island, they were just a bit dubious.
But Mr. Larue proved an unexpected ally. Both Mr. Williamson and Mr. Marley were in River Bend, but they were expected back that night.
"Let the kids have their picnic on Blackberry Island without any grown-ups to tag along and bother them," said Mr. Larue. "I know this Larry—he is absolutely trustworthy and nothing can happen to them under his care. Blackberry Island is a pretty place and safe, too. Then, with the children out of the way, what is to hinder a motor trip and picnic for the rest of us? I'm not so old that I can't enjoy an all day picnic."
"Well," said Mrs. Marley uncertainly, "if you mean to have two picnics to-morrow, I'd better see to putting the chicken on to cook."
Artie gave a joyous whoop and landed on the arm of his mother's chair.
"That means we can go!" he cried, kissing her. "When Mother begins to think about the eats, everything is as good as settled."
They all laughed, but they agreed with Artie.