Margaret was jolly and good company and Helen thought her mother wise to have a guest for dinner. It kept them from thinking too much about their father’s absence.
There was roast beef and hashed brown potatoes with thick gravy, lettuce salad, pickled beets, bread and butter, large glasses of rich milk and lemon pie.
“I’ve never tasted a better meal,” said Tom between mouthfuls.
“That’s because you’ve been so busy at the office,” smiled his mother.
“We were moving right along,” agreed Tom. “I got the forms all ready for the next issue and Helen has the editorials done.”
“Won’t you need a reporter?” asked Margaret.
“We may need one but Helen and Mother are going to try and do all the news writing,” said Tom.
“I mean a reporter who would work for nothing. I’d like to help for I’ve always wanted to write.”
“You could be a real help, Margaret,” said Helen, “and we’d enjoy having you help us. Keep your ears open for all of the personal items and tell Mother about any parties. She’s going to write the society news.”
“We’re getting quite a staff,” smiled Tom. “I’m open for applications of anyone who wants to work in the mechanical department.”