generally end up with a scuffle. I hope you will pardon us, Grace, but the
desire to shake that husky Egyptian reptile was irresistible."

"There is nothing to pardon," replied Grace, "and we have only thanks to
offer for the fun you have given us."

"It was indeed a notable performance," agreed Nora.

"Girls and boys," said Anne, "it is almost ten o'clock and Grace ought to
be in bed. I move that we adjourn."

"Second the motion," said David. "We have been very selfish in keeping
poor Grace up when she is ill."

"Poor Grace is glad you came, and isn't a bit tired," replied Grace,
looking fondly at her friends. "You must all come to see me as often as
you can while I am laid up. I shall be pretty lonely for a few days."

The young folks departed, singing "Good Night, Ladies" as they trooped
down the walk.

"What a pleasure it is to have such dear, good friends," thought Grace as
she lay back on her couch after they had gone. "They are well worth all
the loyalty I can give them."

She went to sleep that night unconscious of how soon her loyalty to one of
them would be put to the test.