"I can't think what makes Ben so late," she said softly to herself.
"I'm going into the other door," said Charlotte, springing off down the veranda.
"Halloo, Pet!" Ben rushed into the hall, and seized Phronsie for a good hug.
"O, Ben, you're so late!" cried Phronsie.
"Well, I'm here now," said Ben comfortably.
"You can't think what has happened," said Phronsie, with a delightful air of mystery.
"To be sure I can't; but you are going to tell me," declared Ben with assurance.
"O, Bensie, I'd so much rather you would guess," said Phronsie, clasping her hands.
"Well, then, you have a new cat," said Ben at a hazard, while he disposed of his coat and hat.
"O, Ben," cried Phronsie in reproach, "why, I've given up having new cats; indeed I have."