cheerfulness I have to look forward to. Last night I couldn't
sleep; I was just upset after seeing Miss Sniffen, and my head felt
wretched. But I kept saying to myself, 'Polly will be here in the
morning!' and that helped me through the night. You don't
know--you never will know!--what a comfort you are!" She pulled
Polly down and gave her a little squeeze.

"And then I didn't come this morning after all!" cried Polly in
sudden contrition. "That was mean! But I had some things to do
for mother, and Chris wanted me to help him with his stamps, and so
I didn't get to it. I'm sorry."

"Dear child! I don't expect you to spend all your time with an old
gray-haired woman who hasn't the mite of a claim on you."

"Gray-haired!" chuckled Polly. "You can't find one gray hair. I
dare you to try!" She shook a threatening finger.

"Don't have to try. I know just where there are two--right in
there." She bent her head.

"Oh, they're only a little pale!" laughed Polly. "They aren't
really gray. But I must go, Miss Nita. Good-bye."

"If you come across the Board anywhere downstairs, you may give it
my compliments."

"Does the Board meet this afternoon?" whispered Polly. "It
wouldn't be compliments I'd give them!" She waved her hand, and
the door shut.