"I acquired this particular kind of Patience on the campus just a few moments ago. I have never actually acquired the other kind."
"You're not the only one," murmured Emma significantly.
"Where is our freshman-to-be?"
"In her room and fast asleep, I suppose. Although she wouldn't admit it, I know she was completely tired out. I could see that," she added slyly.
Patience and Grace smiled in quick recognition of J. Elfreda Briggs' pet phrase.
"How I wish 'I could see' dear old J. Elfreda. Wouldn't it be glorious if she were suddenly to appear in the flesh," sighed Emma.
"She was here with Mrs. Gray and I in August, Patience." Grace went on to relate the details of Elfreda's visit. "Emma has heard all this before. Still, you don't mind hearing it again, do you, Emma?"
"I could listen to it forever, and then ask for a repetition," asserted Emma with gallant glibness.
"I won't be so malicious as to take you at your word," returned Grace. "Will you tell Patience all the news while I run upstairs to see Miss Reynolds?"
"I will," nodded Emma, "and tell it truthfully and without embellishments. I am not a yellow journal. I am a reliable purveyor of facts and nothing but facts." She pounded on the library table with her clenched fist to emphasize her words.