“But you’ll let me help next time?” he questioned eagerly. “You must, you know. I’m a good digger, anyway; and I’ve got a pretty good head for puzzles.”
“Tom!” cried his mother.
“Oh, I should love to have him help!” I burst out. “I’m sure he would be a very great help!”
“Done!” cried Tom. “Shake hands on it!” and he danced around the table and caught my hand in his.
And as I looked into his honest brown eyes I knew that I had found an ally.
Chapter VII
Varieties of the Rose of Sharon
“I think we should all like to say just what Tom has said,” remarked Mr. Chester, after a moment. “We should all like to help, if we could.”
“Oh, you all can!” I cried, impulsively. “I’m sure you can help a great deal.”
“How?” asked Mr. Chester, quietly, but with an earnestness there was no mistaking.
“I’m sure you could help us to work out that riddle that grandaunt left us,” I said. “You know that is the only clue we have.”