message to Susy, to come to her house as soon as possible, “as she had something very particular to say,” ran in the opposite direction to Dr. Pool’s house.
Dr. Pool lived in a very pretty house not far from Mr. Grey’s, although it was quite a distance back from the ocean. There were some beautiful old trees growing near the house, and behind it there was a small pond of freshwater. As Alice drew near the house she saw Patrick just driving the doctor’s horses down for a drink.
“Good!” exclaimed Alice. “There are the horses, that means that Dr. Pool is at home.”
So Alice ran to the door, and rang the bell. It was answered by Nettie Pool, the doctor’s oldest daughter.
Netty was a lovely girl, and was a great favorite with every one. When Alice saw her she said:
“Oh, Netty, I have something very particular to tell you, but first I must attend to business.”
“That sounds very solemn,” said Netty, laughing; “but do come inside while you tell me what that wonderful business is.”