Tame as a kitten the pigeon strutted up to Kitty's hand. She fondled it, gave it some crumbs from her pocket, then, from under the gray and white wing took the tiny quill that held the message.
Cleo had returned, and the girls looked on in wonder, while Kitty unrolled the little slip, and deciphered the message.
"Yes, she's over there yet, Bentley says. And Royal is crying for me." At this she threw up the tousled head and glared defiance.
"I'm going right back," she cried. "She shan't scare me off now. That's just what she wants to do. She wants to steal Royal away, but she shan't, she shan't!" and only a hold on Kitty's arm, made as the girls realized she was running off, held her for another moment.
"Who is Royal?" demanded Cleo. "Tell us! We must know."
"I can't tell you. I'm pledged not to, and don't you think I have to keep a pledge? Do I?" This last was almost an appeal.
"If it is a good pledge," answered Louise quickly.
"I don't know whether it is good or bad," said Kitty freeing herself, "but I know I must get to Royal."
"Can't we go with you?" asked Grace. "We are not afraid of any old Aunt Hannahs."
"Oh, no, no, please, not yet. That would be so much worse. I have to be so tricky to save Royal, and if she suspected me I would lose everything. Not that I care for her old hundred dollars now. I wouldn't even take it," she declared.