And all this time they had saved their birthday money!

It was accidental, for they had in the multitude of other events and
presents, forgotten they had it until one morning, in emptying their
banks for "peanut" nickles, with a dexterity born of long practice, they
discovered the two gold coins, for they each had been given one, of
course, and they rushed off at once to show them.

"Haven't we saved this money, though?" they said, full of pride, and
then they straightway sat down to make plans for spending it.

"Let's each buy a puppy for a parting gift to Bobby and Nan," suggested
Ethelwyn, as she and Beth were soon going away to visit the Home.

"Yes, sir, let's," said Beth. "They dearly love Bose, and Mr. Smithers,
our vegetable man, has six and will sell us two, I know."

Mr. Smithers said he would be charmed--or words to that effect--to sell
them two Newfoundland puppies at five dollars each, and they struck a
bargain at once.

It was easier to do because mother had gone to town on business and was
to be away all day.

Mr. Smithers promised to bring them in that afternoon, and they went off
to wait until then with what patience they could muster.

They met Joe on their way to the barn, and noticed that his usual ruddy
countenance was grave and pale.