Now, Cora, dear," began Gertrude, in her quiet, yet convincing
way, "you may just as well tell us what you are waiting for. We
are guessing all sorts of things, and the truth cannot possibly be
as bad."

They were sitting on the porch of the Grotto, and although they
were away behind scheduled time at that point, Cora insisted she
wanted to rest a bit, and seemed loath to move.

Cora Kimball tired after twenty-five miles! As well accuse the
Whirlwind of drinking its own gasoline.

Hazel was almost feverish. Cora had not divulged the purport of
the telephone message, beyond admitting it was from Ed, which gave
Ray the chance for her little joke on the combination of names -
Cora and Ed, the "Co-Eds."

"When the Co-Eds conspire," lisped Ray, "we may as well wait
patiently. We will have to wait their pleasure, of course."

Cora did not mind the sarcasm. She was certainly not like
herself. Bess and Belle were even anxious about her, and offered
all sorts of remedies, from bicarbonate of soda to dry tea.

"Now," said Cora finally, "it is two o'clock. Do you really think
we ought to make Breakwater tonight?"

"Why not?" gasped Daisy. "Won't Aunt May be waiting for us? And