In a remarkably short time that part of the woodshed near the kitchen was made ready. Boxes and barrels were moved, and beds spread down upon the floor.
"There, I guess that is the finish," Jess declared, when the sofa had been brought from the kitchen. "I shall sleep like a babe on that to-night."
"Not to-night," her mother informed her. "I intend to take the first turn, as I want to see for myself how the youngsters behave."
"And you won't be afraid, mother?"
"Afraid! Did you ever hear of me being afraid? Of course, I shall fasten the door securely, and I'd like to see anyone try to get in through that opening there. I've told Abner over and over again to fix in that window which was blown out by that big gale last fall. But maybe it's just as well as it is, for it will let in plenty of air, which no doubt we'll need. I hope to goodness you gave those street-Arabs a special scrubbing, Jess?"
"Yes, I tubbed them thoroughly this morning, and they certainly needed it."
"And did you change everything on your bed?"
"Indeed I did, and the clothes are all out on the line yet."
"I looked after the 'sudden' night-gowns myself," Belle laughingly remarked.
"Sudden night-gowns!" Mrs. Andrews repeated. "What do you mean?"