They were in the midst of a vivacious conversation, when a sleek, tow-headed woman appeared at the door, and was presented to them. Then she announced supper, and disappeared.
"Don't be frightened," whispered the merry hostess to her guests. "She's tame, and won't bite, and the food is clean."
The landlady entered the kitchen, and after serving them, left the room.
The hours sped merrily. The sick girl lay on the little bed, listening to college reminiscences, and joining occasionally in the conversation and laughter.
"Esther," said Miss Gale, "let's give the Wellesley yell for Edith."
"Well! Here goes!" said Esther, joining her friend. Suddenly, the tow-head appeared at the door.
"Be ye sick?" inquired the surprised hostess.
"No," answered Miss Gale, "only giving our college yell."
"Ye don't say! Is them the kind er doin's ye has where ye goes ter school?"
"A yell is a safety-valve, don't you see, Mrs. Svenson?"