Jessie had suggested a fire in the grate with the idea of making the room more cheerful, and, though the weather was not cool enough to warrant it, the others had cordially assented to the suggestion.
Now the young folks were gathered about the fire in a cozy semicircle while Aunt Emma was engaged in “managing” Phrosy in the kitchen.
“I haven’t the slightest idea what it means,” said Darry, in response to Burd’s question. “Only I am sure it must be some kind of a fake,” he added. “Just give us a little time, and we will show it up.”
“That is just my idea,” said Fol, eagerly. “What do you say to starting out to investigate that swamp in earnest early to-morrow morning?”
“A clever idea, Fol,” applauded Burd. “Just what I was about to suggest myself.”
“Why the look of deep thought, Darry, dear?” asked Amy, who had been regarding her brother with interest. “Aren’t you enthusiastic about meeting our friends, the ghosts, face to face?”
Darry turned to her, an absent look in his eyes.
“Why, I can’t to-morrow,” he said hesitantly.
“I have——”
“A date!” finished Burd, adding dryly: “I reckon I could tell where it is and with whom, too. And all that without the slightest pretensions to clairvoyance, either.”