“It’s fine,” returned Russell; “I’m glad to have a change from driving. They’ve chosen a good, shady spot for it. And the tools are out—all handy.” He ran back for them.
They went at the work good-humoredly, and presently the new tire was on, and they were ready to start.
“Miss Dudley,” began Jozy, a little shyly, “would you mind—may—may—”
“Well, what is it?” urged Polly, one foot on the running-board.
“May I—” Jozy began again,—“do you mind if Grissel and me sit in the other car—the big car?”
“For what?” asked Polly in astonishment.
Jozy didn’t answer.
Grissel’s courage leapt forward. “We want to sit in that,” she pointed, “so ’s—so ’s to be there when it goes off.”
Polly gave a little shriek of laughter, in which Dr. Abbe joined.
The children looked a bit shame-faced; they did not see anything funny. Russell was only a few steps away. He turned back questioningly.