“She probably rode,” whispered Lilith to Polly; “but why didn’t he ride up with her?”
“I bet she wouldn’t come!” piped Clementina.
“It would be a joke if she left him in the lurch,” smiled Mrs. Daybill.
Polly stepped forward to greet the visitor, and Dr. Abbe lifting Dolly in his arms went down the steps, saying, “Here is a young lady who ‘can’t wait to kiss Sardis.’”
There was a general laugh, and then Clementina got in her word. “Where’s the new cook?”
“She will be here presently,—as soon as I get washed up.”
Polly’s heart “went down cellar,” as later she told Lilith.
After a little non-essential talk Sardis Merrifield walked over to the Study with Dr. Abbe.
Lilith drew Polly inside and thence to the kitchen. “What does it mean?” she began. “Not that the minister—?”
“Yes,” frowned Polly. “Every boy who has fried bacon or made coffee at a camp thinks he is an accomplished cook.” She looked round the spotless kitchen over which she and Lilith had spent the greater share of the forenoon, and sighed. If only Benedicta would pop in and save the day!