“Just the same, I’ll feel better when we fellows get up there with you.”
“You’re coming then, Allen?” she asked, quickly. “Do you think you can leave your horrid old clients long enough?”
“Long enough for week-ends, anyway,” said Allen, with a smile, adding soberly: “It’s going to be mighty lonesome down here without you.”
“Oh, well, you’ll always have your work,” said Betty, wickedly. It was not a fair remark at all and she knew it was not. She had seen the boys and girls coming down the street which led to the dock and a moment later they were completely surrounded, leaving Allen not one chance to retort.
Every one was joyful, even Grace—which was unusual at this early hour—and they got under way amid a bombardment of persiflage from the boys.
As the motor of the Gem began its rhythmic putt-putt, Roy began to sing in a far from melodious voice “The Boys They Left Behind Them.” The others joined in, ending the song in a joyful shout.
Just before they passed out of earshot Allen made a megaphone of his hands and shouted something which only Betty understood.
“I’ll get even yet,” he yelled, and for answer Betty waved a mocking hand.
“Now what have you been doing to him?” asked Grace, adding virtuously: “I think it’s a shame the way you treat that poor boy, Betty Nelson. You never give him an easy moment. Dancing so much with Frank last night, for instance. I could see murder in Allen’s eye.”
“Just the same,” remarked Mollie as the Gem gathered speed and they left the shore further and further behind them, “I notice he always comes back for more. You must admit, Grace dear, that Betty has a way with her.”