“I know you will, Polly. Now that’s my brave girl,” and Mother Pepper gathered her up in her arms and held her close.
“And I’ll pack the bag,” said Polly, running off on happy feet to drag out the old carpet-bag from the closet in the bedroom.
And pretty soon the kitchen was in a great bustle, the children getting in each other’s way to help Mrs. Pepper off. And Mr. Tisbett kept saying, “Well, I never!” and slapping the big whip against his knees, making Joel drop whatever he was doing to run over at the enchanting sound. And Phronsie had to tie on Mamsie’s bonnet—and every one hurried to help her into the stage.
“Good-by,” said Mother Pepper, as all four tried to get on the step for a last kiss. “Be good, children, and obey Polly!”
“I’m going to be good,” declared Joel stoutly.
“I’ll try,” said David.
“Let me tie your bonnet again,” said Phronsie, with pleading hands.
“Oh, Phronsie, you can’t tie it again,” said Polly. “Mr. Tisbett has got to go,” as the stage-driver up on the box was cracking his whip impatiently. “You can kiss Mamsie once more.”
“I can kiss my Mamsie again,” said Phronsie, as Polly held her up.
“Good-by, children,” said Mrs. Pepper to them all, as the big stage lumbered off. But her last smile was for Polly.