"Oh, certainly," conceded Cora. "So you are really going out for a spin? I'll get ready and we'll go together: I was just wondering what I could do until dinner-time. Jack is out with some friends, and I was just plain lonesome."
"Put on your new costume," directed Belle. "We want people to look at us. Isn't it perfectly splendid to have a regular set of cars?"
"Yes. We ought to get up an auto show," agreed Cora as she hastened off to make ready for her ride.
They selected a quiet road. In spite of the shadows of the trees it was hot. The swift motion of the cars, however, relieved the humidity of the atmosphere in a measure.
"Which way?" asked Cora as they came to a turn.
"Down by the river," suggested Bess. "We haven't been out Woodbine way all summer. Let's go this afternoon."
"All right. I guess I'll let you set the pace," answered Cora as she held her car back and allowed Bess to take the lead, which the fair amateur motorist did gracefully and with no little skill.
They attracted some attention as they skimmed along in their new outfits and their new cars, And with their bright faces showing their happiness.
Many stopped to look and admire and could not but smile at the evident pleasure the motor girls were having.
"`Far from the maddening crowd,'" quoted Belle as they swung down the quiet river road. "But do be careful, Bess," she urged. "I know you understand as much about the car as I do, but I always feel that I ought to have a life preserver on when any mere girl—including myself—is at the helm of such a powerful craft."