Jerry very often did turn an honest penny by running errands after school hours, and his absence could easily be accounted for on that score, but still Cassy was not satisfied. Somehow the recollection of Billy’s teasing grin remained with her, and she ate her supper very soberly.
“Mother,” she said after she had finished, “do you mind if I go around to the garden and see if Jerry is there? I don’t feel very sure about his going on an errand.”
Her mother smiled.
“Why, my dear, you are not worrying, are you? I think Jerry will be here soon.”
“I know,—but—Billy Miles—I believe he knew where he was—and please, mother——”
“Well dear, if you will hurry right back, you may go. It will soon be dark, and I don’t want my little girl to be out in the streets so late.”
“I’ll come right back,” Cassy promised earnestly; “I will truly, mother.”
“Very well, run along, though I cannot see why you think you will find Jerry there.”
“Maybe Mr. McClure is working late; sometimes he does and Jerry may be helping him.”
“Very well,” her mother repeated, “run along as fast as you can.”