“But the stone’s as hot as any stove-lid,” commented Betty, as she saw the smoke rise from the crumbs that burned on the rock.
“Is that cereal standing off on that other stone?” now inquired Ruth.
“Yes, but who’d a thought a stone would ever be used for an oven?” laughed Joan, stirring the cereal with a long spoon.
“The oven won’t retain heat long after the stone is removed from the embers. Better be ready to serve yourselves as soon as I say ‘ready,’” said Mrs. Vernon, as she removed the pot that had given forth such appetizing odors from the fire, and stood it upon a heated rock.
“Now—all ready!” laughed she, and every girl made a dash for the cereal.
“Here—let me dish it up and pass it along. The whole mess will be in the fire if we all struggle to be first,” added Joan.
The cereal disappeared like snow in July, and then four eager girls were asking for the next course.
“This food, fit for the gods, is composed of the leavings of supper last night. But you girls will never dream that it goes by a homely name,” said Mrs. Vernon, as she ladled a goodly portion upon each plate which was thrust out under her nose.
“What is it called?” asked Ruth, tasting a bit that fell upon the edge of her plate.
“It smells heavenly, Verny!” sighed Julie, rolling her eyes skyward.