“But perhaps he’s going by rail,” suggested Betty. “Father and mother did that, and then they crossed over from Florida.”
“I’m not sure about that,” answered Marion doubtfully, “only he seemed to be counting on several days at sea.”
“Then he must be going from New York,” declared Nita eagerly. “If it’s four days from New York, it can’t be much over one from Florida.”
“Of course not,” agreed Mary, while her fellow-voyagers exchanged delighted glances.
“And if he goes from New York he must take the same boat we do,” went on Betty, “because there isn’t any other. Oh, Marion, did you tell him we were going?”
“No, I didn’t. I thought I’d keep it for a pleasant little surprise. He’s so extremely fond of girls—though you people seem to be shining exceptions to that rule.”
“I’m glad you didn’t tell him,” said Roberta hastily. “I only hope I can keep out of his way. Do you suppose he and Miss Hale know each other any?“
“That’s so,” said Mary. “Won’t it be joyous news to Miss Hale? When she gets tired of our childish chatter, she can talk history and literature with Dr. Eaton. Did you ever hear her mention him, Betty?”
“No,” said Betty, doubtfully, “but she knows him a little anyhow. I remember he went home with her from our faculty-party.”
“Girls,” began Mary suddenly, “I have an idea! Don’t you know how romances always begin on shipboard? Let’s encourage a romance between the learned lady and the learned doctor. Miss Hale is so pretty and attractive that she ought to get married instead of burying herself up here.”