sitting on the low stone bridge over the river, with their lines dangling
carelessly in the water, and their merry laughter and voices ringing out
continually, would not be surprised if their fishing did not meet with
success. At last they clambered down and wandered along the tow-path, and
then suddenly Nancy drew Teddy's attention to his button.

'Why, it's nearly coming off; you'll lose it!' she cried.

'I told mother it was getting loose yesterday. She says she is always
sewing it on. I think I'll take it right off and put it in my pocket.
Whatever should I do if I was to lose it?'

He was jerking at it as he spoke, and it slipped from his grasp and
rolled away on the path. It was too great a temptation for Nancy. Like
lightning she was after it, and a moment after stood upright and
exultant, with the button clenched tightly in her little hand.

'Give it to me at once!' demanded Teddy, quivering all over with
excitement.

Nancy's brown eyes sparkled with mischief.

'Aha! little button-boy, I've got it at last, and I shall take it home
and have it sewed on _my_ jacket.'

'I shall fight you,' cried Teddy, 'if you don't give it up at once!
It isn't yours. You would be a thief if you kept it. Give it to me
this minute!'

'Shall I throw it into the river?' questioned the saucy little maiden.