Miss Gordon did not encourage the girls in the matter, so the proposal quickly was dropped.
“We’re wasting valuable time,” Veve complained. Always impatient, she was eager to return to the tree house. “Let’s get back and try out our new stove!”
“Race you!” challenged Jane.
Off they ran with the other Brownies in pursuit.
Veve and Jane, having a start of the others, were the first to reach the tree house.
“Say! Someone’s been here while we were away!” exclaimed Veve, pointing to fresh footprints at the base of the oak tree.
“I’ll bet a cent they went up into our tree house too,” Jane said indignantly. “Oh, I’ll be glad when Mr. Vincent gets that lock put on the door. Then we won’t have to worry about anyone breaking in.”
Uneasy lest damage might have been done, the two girls swiftly ascended the stairway. Veve pushed open the door.
A squirrel sat on the table, nibbling at a nut.
“Why, the little scamp!” laughed Veve. “How did he get in here?”