Grace forgot her sprained ankle and laughed until the tears rolled down her cheeks.
"You funny, funny boys," she gasped, "how did you ever think of anything so ridiculous!"
"Hippy perpetrated the outrage," said David "and we agreed to help him produce it. We have been practising it for two weeks, only we don't generally end up with a scuffle. I hope you will pardon us, Grace, but the desire to shake that husky Egyptian reptile was irresistible."
"There is nothing to pardon," replied Grace, "and we have only thanks to offer for the fun you have given us."
"It was indeed a notable performance," agreed Nora.
"Girls and boys," said Anne, "it is almost ten o'clock and Grace ought to be in bed. I move that we adjourn."
"Second the motion," said David. "We have been very selfish in keeping poor Grace up when she is ill."
"Poor Grace is glad you came, and isn't a bit tired," replied Grace, looking fondly at her friends. "You must all come to see me as often as you can while I am laid up. I shall be pretty lonely for a few days."
The young folks departed, singing "Good Night, Ladies" as they trooped down the walk.
"What a pleasure it is to have such dear, good friends," thought Grace as she lay back on her couch after they had gone. "They are well worth all the loyalty I can give them."