“A fellow can’t be always washing his face and hands,” said Fred. “You needn’t kiss me if you are afraid of the dirt.”
Laura laughed. “I will risk it this time,” she said.
“Won’t you play me a game of checkers, Gilbert?” asked Fred.
“What am I to do while you two are playing?” asked Laura.
“Oh, you can be umpire,” said Fred.
“I should be sure to decide against you,” said Laura.
“That’s because you like Gilbert,” said Fred, who was just at the age when a boy is apt to make disconcerting speeches.
Laura blushed a little, and so did Gilbert.
“I think we both like him,” said Laura.
“I do,” said Fred.