“Well, I don’t see how you can ever be certain of it!” sighed Miss Tabitha, doubtfully. “This is Doctor Hillman.”
They shook hands, and in a moment the boys found themselves seated side by side and replying to the doctor’s questions.
“You are entering with certificates from your high school principal, I believe, young gentlemen. What year were you?”
“Second, sir,” answered Ned.
“And your home is in—”
“Santa Lucia, sir,” replied Laurie.
“California,” added Ned.
“Well, you’re quite a ways from home. Did you make the trip alone?”
“Yes, sir. Dad was coming with us as far as Chicago, but something happened so he couldn’t. We didn’t have any trouble, though.”
“Really? Well, I believe you have the distinction of residing farther away than any of your fellows here. I don’t recall any one who lives as far away as California; do you, sister?”