Mr. Dean returned the children's visit without loss of time. He found them assembled in Mr. Gresham's orchard, and was given the seat of honor on an old stump, while he was shown the beauties of the post-office. His admiration for this institution satisfied even the children's enthusiasm, and when it had been exhibited from every possible point of view, Margery turned to Amy and said:
"Tell him."
"No, you tell him," said Amy.
"Jack ought to tell him," said Trix, "because he thought of it."
"Yes, tell, Jack," echoed Margery and Amy.
"Now what is this mystery?" asked Mr. Dean.
"It's nothing much," Jack replied, blushing furiously. "You see I thought—we thought that you might like—oh, I mean maybe you'd be another honorary member."
"Of the post-office, the H. T. C.?" asked Mr. Dean.
Jack nodded. "If you don't think we're too little for you," he added.
"I should be delighted," replied Mr. Dean, rising to bow. "It is rather if you don't think I am too big for you. But I'll tell you a secret. I grew up outside, but inside I stayed a boy—do you see?"