"I think it's a problem play," said Nan, laughing anew at the
excited visitor, who had returned to the swing, and was vigorously
pushing herself back and forth with her slippered toe.

"Let me help you, Mona," said Mr. Fairfield, kindly. "Is it
something you have to tell us,--or ask us?"

"Yes, sir, yes! That's it!"

"Well, tell us, then. But take your time and tell us quietly. Then
you won't get incoherent."

The quiet friendliness of his tones seemed to reassure the girl,
and letting the swing stand still, Mona began:

"You see, Mr. Fairfield,--and Mrs. Fairfield, my father is going
to Europe next week. It's on a business trip, and he only just
found out that he had to go. He will take me with him if I want to
go, but I don't! So I proposed a plan to him instead of that,
which he thinks is fine. And,--and, I want to know what you think
about it."

"We will probably approve of it, if your father does," said Nan,
helpfully.

"Well--it's just this. For me to stay at home, and keep our house
open, and have Patty stay there with me, instead of her going to
the mountains with you."

"You and Patty stay there alone!" exclaimed Mr. Fairfield.