"I'd like to, sir," Walter replied, "for I want them to be my friends."
"We will! We will!" cried an eager chorus.
It was later than they dreamed when the clock chimed the hour, and they took leave of Aunt Judith telling her how quaint and delightful the party had been, and how truly they had enjoyed the evening. Captain Atherton took the entire party under his protection, and they walked home together, talking all the way of the kindness of Aunt Judith in planning the pleasure for them.
* * * * * * * *
Very early next morning an impish figure sat astride the old wooden pump that stood near the door of the cottage.
He seemed to have no interest in anything save that door, and he sat very still, his eyes riveted upon it.
The old pump had not been used in years, but it served for a fine pedestal for Gyp.
At last he heard the key turn in the lock, and he was all attention.
The little maid opened it, and took in the milk jar.
"Where's her?" he demanded. "I want ter see her!"