So it was decided to have a picnic the following day, and Miss Martin was telephoned at once to ask the cook and other help if they could prepare the necessities for the picnic dinner in time.
This was satisfactorily arranged, and everyone went to bed betimes so that they might rise at an early hour and help in various ways to enable all to get away on time for the outing.
CHAPTER VIII
THE STREET CLEANING SQUAD
It took little time for the news to spread around the camp that a picnic was planned for that day, and many a Little Citizen forgot newly acquired table manners, in the eagerness to talk it over.
Breakfast out of the way, the cook and her helpers went to work to freeze cream, bake cookies, and prepare other delicious goodies for the treat. The Little Mothers hurried to their Nests to attend to their several duties.
The Health Board went its round conscientiously to see that all beds were aired, all dust swept and wiped up carefully, all clothing dry and clean, and above all, that everyone brushed and cleaned their teeth properly.
The Blue Birds were present at these visits and enjoyed watching the older girls of the camp take charge of things and order the children around.
One of the Health Officers named Marybell was a red-haired, freckled girl of twelve. She was a born captain and now found her opportunity in life.
“Say you, Rebecca Einstein, who tol’ you’se to sweep that dust under de crex rug?” said Marybell upon reaching the Nest where Rebecca had the sweeping to do that day.
“Dere ain’t no dus’ pan,” complained Rebecca.