“Great Scott, no!” answered Dan impatiently. “I came as soon as I found out. I went to Sound View first to make sure you weren’t there. Then I caught the noon train.”
“I don’t see—” began Gerald.
“You don’t see what?” asked Dan as he paused.
“I don’t see why you take so much trouble,” said Gerald.
“Why shouldn’t I?” asked Dan. “Wouldn’t you do as much for me? If you thought I was making a mighty big mistake and getting myself into a heap of trouble and disappointing my folks, wouldn’t you take a little trouble, Gerald?”
“Yes, but—”
“But nothing! It’s all settled. It’s almost half-past, and I’m as hungry as a bear. Do you suppose there’s anything to eat downstairs? I didn’t have much money on hand and couldn’t afford dinner on the train.”
“Of course there is,” cried Gerald. “I’ll tell Thomas to get something. How much time is there?”
“About twelve minutes before we need to start. Here’s Thomas now.”