and masses of buttercups. The tennis was over, but just over;
Peter and Alix were sitting, still panting, on the rail of the
wide, open porch, and shouted as the others came up.

"You missed doubles!" called Alix. "The grandest we ever did!
Doubles with the Thompsons and three sets straight to us--six-two,
six-two, and six-two again! They've gone. Oh, heavens, I never had
such tennis. Oh, Peter, when you stood there at the net and just
curved your hand like a cup"--Alix gave an enthusiastic imitation-
-"and over she went, and game and set!"

Cherry, sinking white and frilly into a chair, smiled indulgently.
The walk had given her a wild-rose colour, and even Alix was
struck with her extraordinary beauty. Alix had wheeled about on
the rail to face the porch, and Peter had gotten to his feet and
was hospitably pushing basket chairs about. Now he gave Alix a
critical look.

"You're disgracefully dirty!" he said, fraternally.

"I know it," she answered, calmly. "Have I time to tub?"

"All the time in the world!" he answered.

"Are any clothes of mine here?" further demanded Alix, rising
lazily.

"Yes, there's a blouse. It's in the linen closet; ask Kow for it
or get it yourself when you get your towels. You left it the day
you changed here after we all climbed the mountain. I hope you