"You know David and Leonora and I went down to Fern Brook last
week," Polly began deliberately, seating herself in the rocker
which Miss Sterling did not like, "and ever since then I've been
wishing it would come a lovely day for you and me to have a little
picnic all by ourselves. Or we might ask one or two others, if you
like. Will you, Miss Nita? You'll break my heart if you say no--I
see it coming! Just say, 'I should be de-e-lighted to go!'"

"Oh, I'd love to, but--"

"No, there isn't a 'but' or an 'if' or anything! We're going! Who
else do you want?"

"You crazy child! I'm afraid it will use me up. I don't dare risk
it. We'll have to take the trolley--and the walk across lots--oh,
I can't, Polly!"

"Yes, you're going! I've made up my mind! The trolley ride won't
hurt you; you'll have nothing to do but to sit still, and the walk
isn't long."

"Remember, I haven't been off the grounds, except for the wedding,
in months."

"I don't forget, and it's awful. You felt better the day after the
wedding."

"Ye-s, but--"

"We're going! It's decided!" Polly jumped up. "Say quick who