The girls slipped away as soon as they conveniently could. They had no very definite plans for the day, and one suggestion after another was made as they walked towards the park.
Herbert Morison soon joined them, and they continued to stroll somewhat aimlessly through the park, the dogs at their heels. There seemed to be a spirit of depression upon them that morning, which was a most unusual experience for them.
"We miss Alan, don't we?" remarked Maud, after one of the awkward silences which seemed inevitable that morning.
The other girls agreed, but Herbert said nothing, as he did not quite see what difference a "kid" like Alan could make.
Suddenly Maud clapped her hands. "I know," she cried; "we'll all go on the loch; it'll be just lovely." She had caught sight of the water shining silvery blue through the trees, and certainly it did look inviting. "Come on," cried Maud excitedly; "you'll take us, won't you, Marj?"
Marjory reddened. "I'm sorry I can't. I promised uncle that I wouldn't go on the loch to-day."
"What rubbish! Why, it's as calm as a mill pond."
"Not quite; there's a bit of a wind; besides, uncle said I wasn't to."
"We needn't sail; we could row," suggested Herbert.
"Oh, rowing's no fun; besides, it's such hard work.—I'll make it all right with the doctor, Marj. You see, he didn't know Herbert would be here."