“Thank goodness my mother didn’t know what happened to us!” she said, fervently. “If she had, it would have worried her to death.”
“By Jupiter, I’m going to phone dad tonight, though!” announced Jack, “so that he can get on that old nut’s trail. I’ll never rest till the mystery’s solved!”
“No, for the man may go right on persecuting other girls,” remarked Mr. Andrews.
The sound of gay voices from the driveway interrupted the conversation.
“Wait till they see you!” chuckled Jack. “Won’t they get the surprise of their lives!”
“The most joyful one, too,” added Mrs. Andrews. “At least, it will be for Lily.”
The party now emerged from the trees which had hidden them from view of the porch. Alice Endicott was the first to become aware of their presence.
“They’re found!” she shrieked, darting forward. “Oh, look, people,—Marj and Frieda!”
Instantly they all began to run towards the porch. Lily was the first to throw her arms around Marjorie. Kisses, embraces, questions, and explanations followed in such rapid succession that Mrs. Andrews had to call for order amidst the wild confusion.
“Have mercy on the poor girls!” she entreated. “Remember Marjorie and Frieda have been under a terrible strain.”