“They’re up to some trick,” whispered Edith Latta. “Anyhow, they still think we’re going to the Watson House. That’s good.”
“Declined with thanks,” responded Fanny, slowly withdrawing her head and closing the window.
The boys began to get out of the ’bus, and very deliberately surrounded the house.
“I do believe they’re going to try to break in,” cried one of the younger girls. “Call up the police.”
Fanny considered for a moment, but the sounds below dispelled her doubt. Going to the ’phone, she called up the city marshal.
His laugh could be heard through the ’phone. “All right,” he shouted; “I’ll be up with force big enough to quell all disturbances.”
In a few moments the officials appeared, followed by three Juniors. Fanny let them in and bolted the door behind them.
“What shall we do, Mr. Appleton?” said the girls, surrounding the marshal.
“Do! Jump into the ’buses and we’ll see that the drivers carry you all to wherever you want to go. And at their expense, too,” he said, chuckling at the thought. “Here, you boys,” to the Juniors, “no time for coats.”
The girls put on their wraps. The marshal threw the doors open and shouted, “The girls accept your offer. Clear the way!”