"Yes,—and he need not have hesitated. I sympathize with him wholly."
Sympathize? How queerly he said it. Again Blue Bonnet was swept out to sea.
"I am going to talk with Mr. Ashe about the matter now. We must do what is best for the boy." As General Trent walked to meet Uncle Cliff, Blue Bonnet stood staring after him, her thoughts in a whirl.
"What's the matter? You look as if you had just been through an earthquake," laughed Ruth, coming up and slipping her thin hand into Blue Bonnet's.
"I think I have,—and everything is upside down." Blue Bonnet still looked dazed as she turned to go into the house.
"Come in and see Kitty. The poor child is pretty blue."
"She was pretty red when I last saw her!" laughed Blue Bonnet. "I've something here to cheer her—a message from Sandy. She snubs him dreadfully, but he seems to enjoy it."
They found all the girls gathered about Kitty's bed, evidently in the midst of a serious discussion. Silence fell as Blue Bonnet entered.
"I can see out of one eye!" Kitty announced with forced gaiety.
"Praise be!" said Blue Bonnet. "Now you can see what Sandy sent for a farewell message." She held out the envelope.