"Now Jessica, you have started him," said David with a groan. "He'll talk about himself for an hour unless Reddy and I lead him out."
"I dare you to lead me out," defied Hippy.
"I never take a dare," replied David calmly, making a lunge for Hippy. "Come on, Reddy."
Reddy sprang forward and Hippy was hustled out, chanting as he went:
"Now children do not blame me, for I have so
much to say,
That from myself I really cannot tear myself
away,"
and remained outside for the space of two minutes, when he suddenly reappeared wearing Grace's coat and Miriam Nesbit's plumed hat and performed a wild dance down the middle of the room that made his friends shriek with laughter.
"Hippy, when will you be good?" inquired Miriam, as she rescued her hat, and smoothed its ruffled plumes.
"Never, I hope," replied Hippy promptly.
"That's the judge's ring," cried Grace as the sound of the bell echoed through the big room, and the guests flocked into the hall to welcome their host.
"This is what I call a warm reception," laughed Judge Putnam, as he stood surrounded by laughing faces.