Carol licked hers, too, thoughtfully. Then she called up the stairs,
"Lark, come here, quick!"

Lark did so, and duly exclaimed and admired. Then she said
significantly, "I suppose you are going to divide with us?"

"Of course," said Connie with some indignation. "I'm going to cut it
in five pieces so Prudence and Fairy can have some, too."

A pause, while Carol and Lark gazed at each other soberly. Mentally,
each twin was figuring how big her share would be when the pear was
divided in fives. Then Lark spoke.

"It is the will of Skull and Crossbones that this luscious fruit be
turned over to them immediately."

Constance faltered, held it out, drew it back.

"If I do, I suppose you'll give me part of it, anyhow," she said, and
her eyes glittered.

"Not so, damsel," said Carol ominously. "The Ancient and Honorable
takes,--it never gives."

For a moment Constance wavered. Then she flamed into sudden anger. "I
won't do it, so there!" she cried. "I think you're mean selfish pigs,
that's what I think! Taking my very own pear, and--but you won't get
it! I don't care if I never get into your silly old society,--you
don't get a bite of this pear, I can tell you that!" And Constance