"So they are," said Mrs. Ramsey laughing, and though Edna was puzzled she did not stop to inquire further because just here Miss Newman said, "And what do you think we have been doing?" And then before anyone could guess, "We've been house-hunting," she said.
"House-hunting," repeated Miss Eloise. "Sister, what do you mean?"
Then Mrs. Ramsey broke in with, "And the best of it is we have not hunted in vain."
This all sounded so very mysterious that everyone began asking questions until Mrs. Ramsey cried, "Do be quiet all of you and we'll try to tell you." So everyone subsided into expectancy and she began. "The house is for Miss Newman and Miss Eloise, and it is the Duncan's bungalow."
"Oh, Mother," Jennie broke in, "that dear cunning little place at the edge of the woods? You don't mean that."
"That is just what I do mean and it has all come about in the loveliest way, but I am not going to [72]tell anything more till after lunch. You have had sauce enough for your curiosity and you can wait."
"It all sounds so bewildering that I am not sure whether I am awake or not," said Miss Eloise. "Either I am dreaming or I shall have to believe in fairies. I think I would rather believe in fairies, for I am sure a very good one has been at work."
Luncheon was disposed of in such short order that Mrs. Ramsey declared that everyone would have an attack of indigestion on account of such hasty eating, but she agreed to gratify the curiosity so very apparent and led the way to the porch where they all usually settled for a little talk after meals.
"Shall I tell or will you, Miss Newman?" she asked.
"You, please, for you can begin further back of the facts than I can who did not come into them till this morning."