"You didn't hurt me either," returned Louise, quite as good-naturedly. "A little pasteboard box couldn't hurt a scout."
"Do you belong to the government?" asked Kitty suddenly.
"We're not enlisted, if that's what you mean," answered Cleo, "but we learn to give service if it is needed."
"I'd like a suit like yours. Must be fine for fogs. Sometimes I can't get into my rags they're so soggy over there in the woods."
Every one silently agreed such clothes as she possessed would surely become "soggy" under the trees.
"But only a scout can wear the uniform," said Grace, being careful to use a very kindly tone.
"What do you have to do?" inquired Kitty, evincing interest.
"When we meet you again we'll tell you about it," replied Louise. "But, say Kitty, we want to take a trip over to the island some day. Shall we see you over there?"
"To the island!" she shouted, and all her gentleness was gone instantly. "Don't you dare; the dogs would eat you up!"
"Oh, no, we don't mind dogs," Cleo hurried to say. "Besides, you must know them and you could keep them in check."