“All ready,” signalled Betty, as she seated herself beside Frances and Sarah, who were already occupying Ruth’s bed. Jane, Anne and Emmy drew their chairs in line with it.
For an instant Ruth surveyed the row of girls without speaking. Then, in the same dry tone she read them Mrs. Shirly’s letter. A murmur of indignation swept the line as she finished. “Let us see what Marian has to say,” she quickly continued, “before we discuss the letter I’ve just read you.”
“I hope she says ‘no,’” muttered Jane.
“Dearest Cousin,” Ruth’s clear voice was again heard. “Your letter came to me yesterday. I put off answering until to-day, because I wanted to think it over. Of course, I don’t mind Miss Shirly’s making one of our house party. Why should I? Just remember that last summer I was the intruder. Still, I don’t think it would be fair to her or to you girls to invite her on the strength of her mistake. If you do, both sides will probably be sorry later on. You must consider only whether or not you are really anxious to help her along as a Camp Fire Girl. I think that is the only right way to look at it. I imagine you must be of the same opinion. Whatever you decide, I shall be satisfied. Please forgive me for chopping off this letter. I am due in ten minutes at Winton Hall for a chemistry recitation. Will have to make giant strides across the campus to get there. With much love to you and the girls. Let me hear from you soon.
“Affectionately,
“Marian.”
“Remarks are in order.” Ruth folded the letter, her glance traveling from one to another of her friends.
“The last county having been heard from, Blanche is now among the elect,” stated Betty without enthusiasm.
“I’m not so sure of that,” contradicted Jane, her black eyes snapping. “What about Mrs. Shirly’s letter?”
“Yes, what about it?” chimed in Sarah crossly. “What business had Blanche to write to her mother that she had been invited to our reunion before she knew whether or not she was? It’s what I should call a put-up job, from start to finish.”