Now, as she looked at the two, she ventured:
"I have a proposal. What do you say to taking our tea to the woods, and then I'll tell you a story, if you like?"
"Oh, yes—yes," exclaimed Ellice, full of animation at once, and forgetful of all her former animosity.
"Come along then," said Margaret; "let's get a basket from Betsy."
In a few minutes everything was prepared, and the three set off for Wychfield Glade.
It was a perfect afternoon, and Margaret's heart felt lighter as they followed the mossy path which led through the forest to the avenue. Bob's manner showed a subtle change:
"Please let me carry that for you, Miss Woodford," he said shyly, holding out his hand for the tea-basket.
"It's awfully heavy," remarked his small sister, in a loud whisper.
He brushed the remark aside with a look which said plainly, "You shut up."
Margaret accepted the offer with a smile of thanks as she gave up the burden.