The young people played games, sang, and danced to their hearts’ content.––Page 169.
“Oh, I’ve had a perfectly lovely time!” declared Belle, when she and the others were on their way to the depot.
“And so have I had a lovely time,” added Cora Dartmore. “But I’m so sorry your friend lost that fortune,” she added. Ben had said good-bye over the telephone, the wire of which was once more in working order.
“If you ever do hear of those miniatures you must let us know,” went on Belle.
“We’ll be sure to do that,” answered Laura. And then the train came in, and, with a final handshake all around, and with several kisses exchanged between the girls, Belle and Cora climbed on board, Dave and Phil assisting them with their suitcases.
“I’m sorry I’m not going with you,” cried the shipowner’s son, “But I’ve promised Dave and Roger to stay a few days longer.”
“Be sure to send us a letter as soon as you get back home,” cried Jessie.
And then the train rolled out of the station and the visitors from the West were gone.
On the night before Phil took his departure the three chums had what they called a “talk-fest” in Dave’s room. They spoke about many things––of how they had first gone to Oak Hall, and of various adventures that had occurred since that time.