"That is very nice of you, gentlemen," said she, bowing gracefully to them, "but I know about how much allowance to make for 'soft soap' in this case."
"But what is the condition, Maggie?" asked Dr. Jones.
"I go with you."
"To Washington? Certainly you shall, honey."
"I go with you in the globe, to the North Pole, or any other place the wind may blow us."
"You—what!"
"I have said it."
The Doctor dropped into a chair with a groan. "I knew it! I knew she meant mischief all the time."
"But my dear woman," cried he, jumping from his chair again, "don't you see the utter impossibility of your going on so hard and perilous a voyage? You could never endure it in the world."
"Hardships and perils, indeed!" said she mischievously. "Haven't you said over and over in my presence that this was simply a beautiful picnic trip and perfectly safe?"