[CHAPTER VIII]
A PARTING
“Why—er—that is—I’m awfully obliged to you, of course, for saving my sister,” spoke the newcomer—his name must be Reggie Varley, Joe rightly decided. “Very much obliged, old man, and—er——”
He paused, evidently quite embarrassed.
“You two act as though you had met before,” said Miss Varley, with a smile. “Have you?”
“Once,” spoke Joe, drily. “I did not know your brother’s name then.” He did not add that he was glad to find that he was Mabel’s brother, and not a more distant relation.
“How strange that you two should have met,” went on Mabel Varley.
“Yes,” returned Joe, “and it was under rather strange circumstances. It was while I was on my way down here to join the ball team, and your brother thought——”
“Ahem!” exclaimed Reggie, with a meaning look at Joe. “I—er—you’d better get in here with me, Mabel, and let me get you home. Perhaps this gentleman——”
“His name is Joe Matson,” spoke the girl, quickly.
“Perhaps Mr. Matson will come home with—us,” went on Reggie. Obviously it was an effort to extend this invitation, but he could do no less under the circumstances. Joe felt this and said quickly: