CHAPTER XIV

THE REGATTA

The two young men came on, apparently with the object of speaking to
the girls. Evidently they had purposely sought them out.

"Oh, it is Miss Nelson, and her friends from the Gem!" exclaimed Mr.
Stone, which might indicate that he had expected to meet some other
party of picnic lovers.

"I hope we are not intruding," said Mr. Kennedy, "but we want to
borrow some salt, if you have any."

Betty looked at them curiously. Was this a subterfuge-- a means to an
acquaintance? Her manner stiffened a trifle, and she glanced at Aunt
Kate.

"You see we came off on a little picnic like yourselves," explained
Mr. Stone, "and Bob, here, forgot the salt."

"You told me you'd put it in yourself, Harry!" exclaimed the other,
"and of course I thought you did."

"Well, be that as it may," said his friend, "we have no salt. We heard
your voices over here and decided to be bold enough to ask for some.
Do you remember us, Miss Nelson?"

"Oh, yes." Betty's manner softened. The explanation was sufficient.