“No, certainly not,” answered Ned. “Why?”
“Nothing!” She seemed to be thinking quickly. She took a few steps towards the house, stopped as if to say something, changed her mind, and went in.
At first it was her intention to rush straight to the girls’ rooms, accuse them of the deceit, learn to what extent they had lied, and make all those who had a part in it forfeit their rewards. But a little consideration of the matter caused her to change her mind; after all it would be better to wait until their identity had been established and she was sure of her case.
It was nearly one o’clock when the scouts, refreshed by their sleep and clothed in their pretty dresses which had been sent ahead in trunks, appeared on the porch. They found their hostess alone; the tennis players had long since returned to their game.
“Well, girls,” she said cheerily, “how does it feel to rest?”
“Wonderful!” cried Alice, gaily. “Almost too wonderful—for your sake, Auntie! I’m afraid that we’ll want to stay here a good while!”
“You’re welcome to stay all summer if you like,” replied the old lady hospitably. “In fact, you will have to be here some little time before your cars come. I haven’t even put in the order yet!”
“Then you didn’t expect us all to win them?” asked Ethel.
“No, frankly, I didn’t. And I want to be sure that you deserve them before you get them!”
“Then you’re not sure yet?” flashed Alice, suspiciously.