“That’s only two words less than mine,” said Bob.
“Well, we’ll see if we can’t get it into ten,” replied Laurie untroubledly. “Now then!” He took up his pencil again. “We might say ‘Comfort’ instead of ‘Miss Comfort,’ but it doesn’t sound quite respectful.”
“Leave out ‘from house,’” suggested Bob. “He will understand that she isn’t being evicted from the stable!”
“That’s so! ‘Is Miss Comfort being evicted by your order? Public opinion—er—’”
“‘Against it,’” offered Ned.
“‘Opposed,’” said Bob.
“I’ve got it!” exclaimed Laurie, erasing and starting a new draft. “How’s this? ‘Have you authorized eviction aged sister-in-law? Orstead indignant. Answer immediately.’ That ought to fetch him! Only ten words, too!”
“How about sister-in-law?” asked Bob. “Will they call it one word or three?”
“One, of course. Or ‘aged relative’ might do just as well. ‘Orstead indignant’ will give him a jolt, I’ll bet!”
“What are you going to sign it?” asked Ned anxiously.