"It's just a penny," called a gay voice, "the one they're always offering for your thoughts, you know."
Ruth looked up as Arthur dropped down on the rug beside her. "They're worth so much more that I couldn't let you have them for a penny," she said with a laugh.
"Make it a spring bargain sale and give 'em to me at a great reduction," he suggested.
"They were perfectly good thoughts," answered Ruth. "I was just wondering how I happened to drop down in such a lovely place, and why every one is so nice to me, and thinking how I shall miss you all when father sends for me."
"Don't begin to think about that," protested Arthur quickly. "You know you came for a year, a whole year."
"I know," laughed Ruth. "I don't believe you were a bit pleased when you heard that I was coming for a whole year. I really think you've got used to me very nicely."
"It's astonishing how soon we get used to things that we know we must put up with," said Arthur with a sigh of resignation. "Oh, by the way, there's something I forgot to tell you," he added.
"What is it?" cried Ruth eagerly.
"You won't tell the other girls, will you?"
"Why no, if you really don't want me to."