it commanded a full view of the scene of action. His amiability was
further increased, moreover, by the possession of a bright new
policeman's whistle, which was carefully tied to his button-hole by a
neat little silk cord, and which his fond parents intended that he
should blow if he chanced to fall into danger during his rambles
about the camp. We might as well state here, however, that this
precaution proved fruitless, for he blew it at all times and seasons;
and everybody became so hardened to its melodious shriek that they
paid no attention to it whatever,--history, or fable, thus again
repeating itself.

Mr. and Mrs. Noble had driven Margery and Phil into town from the
fruit ranch, and were waiting to see the party off.

Mrs. Oliver was to live in the Winship house during the absence of
the family, and was aiding them to do those numberless little things
that are always found undone at the last moment. She had given her
impetuous daughter a dozen fond embraces, smothering in each a gentle
warning, and stood now with Mrs. Winship at the gate, watching the
three girls, who had gone on to bid Elsie good-bye.

'I hope Pauline won't give you any trouble,' she said. 'She is so
apt to be too impulsive and thoughtless.'

'I shall enjoy her,' said sweet Aunt Truth, with that bright, cordial
smile of hers that was like a blessing. 'She has a very loving
heart, and is easily led. How pretty the girls look, and how
different they are! Polly is like a thistledown or a firefly,
Margery like one of our home Mayflowers, and I can't help thinking my
Bell like a sunbeam.'