you're a dozen times welcome to share my old bunky on the shanty-
boat. I'd just love to make another cot like mine, and have you
there. Say, wouldn't it be grand? Of course, though, you'd find it
a pretty poor contraption alongside the house you've lived in; but
if it was a thousand dollar launch still you'd be just as welcome,
and you know it," he said with a heartiness that could not be
misunderstood.

The other looked at him affectionately, and was about to say
something in return when the window of the post-office was thrown
open as a signal that the mail had been distributed. So Maurice
stepped up to secure the usual papers, together with an occasional
letter, that came for the Jaspers.

Thad saw him start and look curiously at one letter, and then
begin to tear the end off as though it were meant for him.

Watching curiously, all unaware how history was making at that
identical moment for himself and Maurice, he saw the other smile
and nod his head, while an expression of delight gradually crept
over his face.

Then Maurice remembered that his chum was standing there waiting
for him to come, and together they passed out of the little
office.

"If that doesn't beat the Dutch!" Maurice was saying, half to
himself, as he looked at the letter he was holding in a hand that
trembled a little despite his efforts to seem composed.