“Anne,” said Mr. Gilroy, “these dabblers in rhapsodies will eat their full share of the ‘common material food’ the moment they get within reach of that frying-pan. Come on, let’s get there first, Anne.”
During breakfast Mr. Gilroy said: “As soon as we finish here, the guide proposes taking us down Bright Angel trail to the bottom of the Cañon. The heavier you are the firmer you will feel while on the burros’ backs, hence I advise you to eat plenty.”
“Gilly, dear, I think I will remain in camp. I am not going down,” stammered Betty.
“Not going down! Well, I guess you are!” exclaimed Julie, amazed.
“Julie, I’m afraid,” whimpered the girl.
“Nonsense! What’s there to be afraid of?” demanded her sister.
The adults in the group reasoned with Betty, but Amy and Hester now said: “We’ll stay here with Betty and keep her company.”
Betty smiled feebly in gratitude to these wonderful friends who were willing to forego the thrill of such a trip in order to keep her from being lonely.
“No, you don’t!” retorted Joan. “If you two have the shakes, the only way to cure you is to drag you down at the heels of the donkeys.”
“If you’re afraid to go down why not up and confess, just as Betty did? Don’t go and get out of it by saying you’ll sacrifice yourself by remaining here to keep her company,” was Julie’s sarcastic suggestion.