Eichorn, who had been "keeping company" of late. Billy, for whom
there was no room in the reel, let off his energy in the corner by a
noisy execution of the "Mobile Buck." Australia and Europena sat in
the window with Chris Hazy, and delightedly clapped time to the
music.

When the dance ended, Mrs. Wiggs went to the door to get cool. She
was completely out of breath, and her false front had worked its way
down over her eyebrows

"Look--comin', ma!" called Billy.

When Mrs. Wiggs saw who it was she hastened down to the gate.

"Howdy, Mr. Bob; howdy, Miss Lucy! Can't you git right out an' come
in? We 're havin' a birthday party an' a benefit dance fer Chris
Hazy's leg."

"No, thanks," said Redding, trying in vain not to look at Mrs.
Wiggs's head. "We just stopped by to tell you the good news."

"'Bout Asia's position?" asked Mrs. Wiggs, eagerly.

"Yes, about that, and something else besides. What would you say if
I told you that I was going to marry the prettiest, sweetest,
dearest girl in the world?"

"Why, that's Miss Lucy!" gasped Mrs. Wiggs, more breathless than
ever. Then the truth flashed upon her, and she laughed with them.