“If you have any mix-up with Ap while we’re gone, be sure to let us know,” laughed Bobby.
“There won’t be any mix-up,” put in Fred. “Not if Ap sees Pat first, there won’t.”
“Ap will crawfish all right,” confirmed Mouser.
“He’s a wonder at backing out,” added Pee Wee.
The bell of the engine began to clang and the train started slowly out of the station. The little party left behind ran alongside until they reached the end of the platform, shouting and waving.
The travelers, with their heads far out of the windows, waved and called in return until they were out of sight and hearing.
“Betty’s a bully girl, isn’t she, Fred?” remarked Bobby, as they settled back in their seats. “You’re a lucky fellow. I wish I had a sister like her.”
“Ye-e-s,” assented Fred, rather hesitatingly. “Betty’s a brick. That is,” he added hastily, “as far as any girl can be. But don’t be wishing too hard for sisters, Bobby,” he went on darkly. “Girls aren’t all they’re cracked up to be.”
“Especially when they know how to throw,” put in Bobby, with a roguish glint in his eyes.
Fred pretended to think this remark unworthy of an answer, but he rubbed his nose reflectively.