Peal after peal came from the merry girl, who could not restrain
herself, although Nellie looked so reproachfully, and Fred really
angrily at her; the former saying:

"Indeed, Fannie, I'm too much frightened to laugh."

Fred was too mortified to say another word for some time. At length,
turning to Fannie, who had grown a little quiet, he snappishly said:

"Pray, don't stop! I'm very happy to afford you so much amusement."

Of course Fannie began anew; and Nellie trying to stop her by looks
and motions, asked:

"What shall you do, Fred?"

"It is not a matter of such vital importance that you need look so
worried, Nellie. I'll go to the police head-quarters, explain the
matter, and leave the watch. That will be the end of it," said Fred,
trying to assume a light, careless tone.

Nellie hoped it might be the end of it; but still fearful of
something unpleasant, asked:

"Is it too late to-night to go, Fred?"

"Certainly it is," Fred answered.

Seeing Nellie's face still retain its anxious and frightened