feel creepy. Although it was not yet midday, the light was very dim
under the thick branches of the tree. The snow became banked high
behind them, and Ruth, who was in front, had to continually break
away the drifting snow with her mittened hands so that they could see
out.

And they could see precious little outside of their den. Just the
snow drifting down, faster and faster, thicker and thicker, gathering
so rapidly that they all were secretly frightened, although at first
each girl tried to speak cheerfully of it.

"If we'd only thought to get Janey to put us up a luncheon," sighed
Heavy, "I wouldn't have minded staying here all day. It's warm
enough, that's sure."

"My feet are cold," complained Lluella. "I don't believe it will
remain warm forever."

"And we couldn't make a fire," said Helen.

"I've matches in my pocket," Ruth said quietly. "I've carried them
in a bottle ever since we've been in the woods."

"For pity's sake! what for?" demanded Belle.

"Well--Tom told me to. He does. Helen knows," said Ruth, hesitating.

"Goodness me! it's like being cast away on a desert island," cried
Heavy. "Carrying matches!"