“Then run along, and be prepared to meet Phœbe at the house when Janet calls for her.”
CHAPTER XXII
MARION’S GHOST STORY
When Janet Ferguson arrived at the Eliot homestead that evening she was greeted by enthusiastic shouts from the younger Darings, with whom she was a great favorite. They surrounded her in a group before she could reach the house, while Phil came across the lawn to meet her and shake hands cordially.
Phœbe, glancing sharply around, saw Toby Clark leaning against a column of the dining room porch, where he was half hidden by the vines.
“Come!” she whispered, and led the way into the house. Halfway up the stairs she paused to look back, not hearing his footsteps; but he was so close behind that he startled her and soon she had ushered him into her own little room.
“Lock the door behind you,” said she, “and pay no attention if anyone knocks or tries to get in.”
Toby merely nodded as he shut himself in. Phœbe hurried down to join Janet, carrying a little handbag that contained the things she needed for the night.
“Why, Phœbe! where are you going?” asked Sue, seeing the bag.
“To stay with Janet. Where is Cousin Judith?”