With a contented groan he stretched himself out under a shade tree and closed his eyes. Dave helped the girls clean up the picnic things.
After that, they sat around and talked. Doris was induced to sing and they all joined in, even Marshmallow, whose voice was gruff and seldom on the right key.
“It’s that last sandwich pressing against my larynx,” he apologized.
“Doris, you have a wonderful voice,” Dave praised soberly. “I suppose you’ve been told that by every one.”
“Not by every one,” Doris laughed. “It will probably take years before my voice develops to its fullest capacity. That’s what my teacher says.”
“You’re dead set upon a career, aren’t you?” Dave asked, a strange light shining in his eyes as he gazed thoughtfully at her curly head.
“Oh, yes. I want to sing in Grand Opera some day. Perhaps my ambitions are greater than my ability!”
“No, you’ll make it, and if that’s what you want, more power to you!”
Doris glanced quickly at her friend, and as quickly turned away as she saw the expression on his face. She was further embarrassed as she realized that Marshmallow and Kitty were aware of what had been passing through Dave’s mind.
Hastily she arose.