They all worked, some brushing out the cave with bushes, some getting old wood in piles to burn, rolling stones for seats, etc., until it was time for them to go home, when, with merry shouts, off they ran down the rock, and over the fields, home.
Next morning Phil called for Miss Walters, and on the way told her of the plans for Saturday, into which she entered heartily, and wanted the boys to stay a few moments after the morning session, to perfect the arrangements.
At recess she called the girls of the botany class to her, and said,—
“Girls, can you go on Saturday to walk? The boys have invited us to take supper at the cave.”
“O, yes!” “O, yes!” “Yes, indeed!” “Splendid!” answered half a dozen voices.
“We will meet here at two o’clock; and you must dress for the meadows. I believe the boys are mostly web-footed, by the way they take to such places; however, we do find the best specimens there. Another thing—the boys are to furnish eggs and coffee, they say; and each of you can bring what is most convenient.”
Off went the girls, eager to plan and discuss the welcome project.
Saturday came—a bright, cloudless day. All were at the school-house at two, or before, and set forth, looking like strollers, as they were.
They did not make many collections on the high land; but when they entered the meadows, they soon found a variety of pretty grasses.
“Fudge!” said Ella Barton; “I’m not going to get any of that old hay—would you, Miss Walters?”