"Dick---do you---mind if I ask a question," demanded Greg slowly.

"No," smiled Dick, "for I think I know what it is."

"Are you---is Laura---I mean-----"

"You wonder whether Laura and I had any understanding before I
left Gridley? That's what you want to know?"

"That is what I was wondering."

"There is no understanding between us--not the least," Prescott
replied. "I don't know whether Laura would consent to one, now
or later. I don't know myself yet, either, Greg. I want to wait
until I have grown some in mind. Laura Bentley is such a magnificent
girl that it would be a crime to make any mistake either as to
her feelings or mine."

"Do you think good old Dave and Belle Meade had any understanding
before Dave left Gridley?"

"Dave went away after we did," Prescott answered. "So I can't
be sure. But I don't believe Dave and Belle are pledged in any
way."

"Funny game, the whole thing!" sighed Greg, rising. He had drawn
off one of his white lisle-thread gloves, but now he was engaged
in putting it on again.