"We've had some words," explained Aunt Love. "He barked cruel at the poor little thing when he first saw me with it."
"Have it out, have the chicken out," said Mildred; and Miss Berry, yielding to the general urgency, produced her prize from the depths of the cotton wool. It began to struggle and peep vigorously as soon as its beady eyes saw the light, and there came a muffled howl from under the sofa.
"What are you going to name it?" asked Clover.
"I don't know what name would be good enough for such a smart critter."
"Why, Electra, of course," remarked Jack. "Nothing less for such a star among chickens."
"Sounds well and suitable," observed Miss Berry placidly, "whether it means anything or not."
"I wonder if it has any unusual springs," said Mildred. "If I should touch the button do you suppose it would give us a rest?" She advanced a finger toward one of the bright eyes, but Miss Berry removed her squeaking prize from harm, and tucked it away again in the cotton from which it struggled several times before finally settling down with a diminuendo of peeps.
CHAPTER XVIII.
CLOVER'S DIPLOMACY.
Mr. and Mrs. Page arrived duly, even a little earlier than they had at first anticipated. Jack met them at the station and drove with them to their destination.