So they went off on their picnic, and did not come home until time to dress for the train that was to bring back Mrs. Rayburn and Beth.
"Well Ethelwyn," said Aunty Stevens, meeting her, "how was the picnic?"
"The picnic as far as the pie, and other eating were concerned, was perfect, but Nan was a trial sometimes," said Ethelwyn, sighing deeply; "she said she couldn't possibly go home, 'count of her mother having a headache as usual, and she was as cross as a bear. I had my hands pretty full with that child. She does not give in to me like my sister—I will say that." And Ethelwyn again sighed deeply, as she walked into the house for her bath and toilet.
When the train stopped, and Elizabeth appeared, Ethelwyn and she rushed at each other, and both began to talk at once.
"I've a secret that will make your eyes stick out—then I made a pie—"
"I saw the doctor that makes bone people. There was one for a sign at the pittalhos where we were—"
"Hospital, child."
"And he was undressed, even from out of his skin; you could, see clear through him. I was scared, because I thought that the doctor would make mother and me into one, but he was nice and said he'd cure Dick. We saw his bed all white—"
"Wait till you know the secret. I saved you a piece of pie—Nan wanted it—"
"I rode up in an alligator—"