“Givie up! Givie up! Come on in free!”
This meant that when Tommie ran out from where he was hiding Neddie would not tag him, and the kitten boy would not be “it.” So out Tommie came from under the ash can, and Neddie said:
“Oh, so that’s where you were; eh?”
“Sure I was,” said Tommie. “But say, Neddie, your mamma wants you.”
“Really?” asked Neddie.
“Really, truly, and truly ruly,” laughed Tommie.
Just then Mrs. Stubtail came out and called again:
“Neddie! Neddie! I want you!”
“What is it, mamma?” asked Neddie, politely, and wondering where he would hide when it came his turn.
“I want you to bring me in some kindling wood for the stove, so I can easily make a fire in the morning to get breakfast,” said the bear lady.