Smiley Jim felt that he had been given charge of Kit, for he stayed near her and pawed at her dress, demanding attention.
Shirley and Joy now finished the packing of the basket and were covering it as if it were to be sent on a long journey, but the reason was soon apparent when Smiley Jim started toward it, and took the handle in his mouth. He dropped it suddenly and gave several loud barks, making sure that everyone had seen his deed of helpfulness, then started toward the Manor.
"You see," laughed Shirley. "Even Smiley Jim wants to join our club and help others."
"And he wants the whole world to know that he's doing something noble. —But I don't blame him for that," bubbled Joy.
"That dog is strong for flattery," laughed Bet. "He just eats it up. Scold him and he'll pout like a wee child; praise him and he thrills."
"He's exactly like a human being, isn't he Bet?" remarked Shirley with a smile.
"Half the time I pretend he is human. I tell him all my secrets and all my happy surprises and even my troubles. And when I'm blue, he does my howling for me. Truly he does. He can't bear to see me sad."
"He's a wise dog. No one should be sad. I'm glad I'm alive! Right now I want to dance and shout, I'm so happy!"
"Go to it, Joy!" laughed Bet. "No one will stop you!"
The girl worked off her enthusiasm with a few well executed handsprings and cartwheels. "I'd better get rid of some of this energy or I may wreck the Manor!"