They all thought the pocketbook belonged to a poor woman. They got this idea from the letter—that is, the grown-up folks and the older children did. Mun Bun and Margy didn't think much about it, one way or the other. All they cared about was having fun.
And the six little Bunkers certainly had fun at Aunt Jo's. They played in the yard or around the garage; they went for auto rides, on little excursions and picnics, they played with Alexis, the big dog, and they rode on the skatemobile.
One day a boy named Tom Martin, who lived about half a block from Aunt Jo's house, came up in front and called:
"Hi, Russ! Ho, Laddie! Come on out and play tops!"
The two older Bunker boys had become acquainted with Tom, and liked to play with him. Now they heard him calling and Russ answered:
"We'll be out in a minute; soon as we've had some bread and jam."
"Bring Tom a piece, too," suggested Laddie, for Parker, the good-natured cook, was giving the boys a little treat.
"Yes, I'll give you a slice for your friend," she said.
So she spread him a nice slice of bread and jam, and Russ and Laddie, carrying their own, which they ate on the way, also took one to their new playmate.
"Let's play tops," suggested Tom. "We can go down the street where the sidewalk is big and smooth, and spin 'em there."