"Yes, give an account of yourself," commanded Elfreda. "Have you no respect for our feelings?"
"Did you imagine no one would miss you?" was Miriam's question.
"I will answer your questions in order," laughed Grace. "I've been out on important business, I have the deepest respect for your feelings, and I know that my friends always miss me."
"Spoken like a soldier and a gentleman," commended Elfreda.
"Which is quite remarkable, considering the fact that I am neither," retorted Grace.
"Grace, what on earth have you been doing?" Anne's face grew sober. There was a subdued excitement in her friend's manner that had not escaped her notice.
"Anne, I cannot tell a lie," returned Grace lightly. "I've been to the police station."
The three girls stared at Grace in amazement.
"Let me see," mumbled Elfreda. "Have I transgressed the law lately, or had any arguments with Grace? This looks suspicious."
"Don't tease me, and promise you will never tell any one what I'm about to say. Hold up your right hands, all of you."