"Grace is not dead," he announced. "She had a fainting spell, that is
all. But I think after this she had better leave rope skipping alone."




CHAPTER III

THE FIRST SNOW STORM


Nan felt greatly relieved to learn that Grace was not dead.

"Oh, mamma, I am _so_ glad!" she said, over and over again.

"I am glad too," answered Mrs. Bobbsey. "Her mamma has told her several
times not to jump so much."

"Yes, I heard her." Nan's eyes dropped. "I was wicked to turn the rope
for her."

In the end Nan told her mother the whole story, to which Mrs. Bobbsey
listened very gravely.

"It was certainly wrong, Nan," she said. "After this I hope my little
girl will try to do better."

"I shall try," answered Nan.