"Can't you wait for dinner?" asked Connie. "Harry will be here then and you'd have time to catch the train."
"I've a little business to do before," said Ned. "I promised one of our fellows to see his brother, who lives near the station."
"Oh! You must have something to eat first," insisted Connie. "You'll miss your dinner probably. That won't do." So he waited.
They had finished the hurriedly prepared meal, which she ate with him so that he might feel at home, when Stratton came in.
"He's always just in time," explained Connie, when the greetings were over. "He gives me the cold shivers whenever we're going to catch a train. Say 'good-bye' to Ned now, and don't delay him! I'll tell you all he said, all but the secrets. He's going to Queensland to-night and hasn't a minute to spare."
"I'm sorry you can't stay overnight," said Harry, heartily. "I'd like to have a long talk but I suppose my fine society lady here hasn't wasted time."
"I've talked enough for two, you may depend upon it," announced Connie, as they went to the front door together, chatting.
"Well, good-bye, if you must go," said Harry, holding Ned by both hands. "And remember, whatever happens, you've got good friends here, not fair-weather friends either."
"He must go, Harry," cried Connie. "I've kept him just to see you. You'll make him miss the next boat. Come, Ned! Good-bye!"
Ned turned to her, holding out his hand.