“Uncle Jasper got scared then. He said he’d have to get me back to my father in a hurry. He explained how he was really putting more props under the tower and said it was because my mind wasn’t right that I had been afraid he would kill me. He told me that if I didn’t want to go to the insane asylum I’d keep still about the whole thing. I said I would but it wasn’t true and I’m sure he didn’t believe me. Then he took me riding in the car but he didn’t take the road for Farringdon. I don’t know where he intended to take me but wherever it was, I didn’t want to go. So, when he had to slow down for a railroad crossing, I jumped out of the car. He was busy driving and didn’t miss me until afterwards. By that time I had started hiking. So here I am and I guess that explains everything.”
Irene sank back in her chair and looked, suddenly, tired. Judy realized that she must be hungry too. She remembered the packages that the boys had brought in, and all of them set about preparing food and something for Irene to drink. She wanted coffee with plenty of cream. The same Irene, dear child! Judy didn’t care if she never explained about the poetry.
CHAPTER XXVI
HER MAJESTY ARRIVES
The meal that Peter Dobbs cooked and served was a merry one. Truly, it was an occasion for rejoicing.
“A party after all,” Dale said. He told Irene about the other party and how they waited and waited.
Judy sat between Arthur and Peter dividing her attention between them. She rose, lifted her glass of water and gave a toast:
“Happiness for all of us! Here’s how!”
Her gayety was contagious. Everybody was laughing now. It was good to be able to laugh with Irene again. She was just meant to be spoiled and laughed with Dale declared.