"Oh, I don't know," drawled Sid. "A fellow might make good, and
then do--well, better."

Ed glanced at Jack. How did Sid know about Ed's plan to take stock
in the new bank? That was a question that each youth flashed to the
other.

There was something unpleasant in the manner of Sidney Wilcox. All
in the party seemed to feel it. And as far as the girls were
concerned, they noticed much of the same manner in Ida, though Jack
and Ed were not quite so critical. As for Walter, he did not seem to
be giving Ida a thought. But it is doubtful if she was so
indifferent toward him. Still, she would not look in his direction
while Cora and her two chums were with him.

Corn walked slowly up the broad store steps; Bess and Belle
following.

"I'm simply choked," said Cora with a laugh. "I never had such a
thirsty run."

Ida seemed very much interested in the distant landscape.

"The roads are awfully dry," she murmured.

"And so am I," added Elizabeth as she followed her sister and Cora
into the store. Walter and Jack trailed in after them, while Ed
stayed for a moment outside with Ida and Sid. The latter did not
introduce Ed to Ida. It was a habit Sid had, of never presenting his