ran over--"

"Oh, Cora Kimball! I'll never get my news in, if I don't interrupt
you right here and now!" cried Bess. "Listen, my dear! I simply
must tell, you. It's what I ran over for, and I know you can't have
had any serious accident, and look as sweet as you do now--it's
impossible!"

"Thanks!" murmured Cora, with a mock bow. "After that, I must yield
the floor to you. Go on, Bess. What is it? Has some one stolen
your car, or have you discovered a new kind of chocolate candy? I
wish I had some now; I'm simply starved! You have no idea how
bracing and appetizing the air is. What was I telling you about?"

"Never mind, Cora. It's my turn. You can't guess what has
happened."

"And I'm not going to try, for I know you're just dying to tell me.
Go on. I'm listening," and Cora sat on a stool at the feet of her
chum.

"Well, it would take too long to tell it all, but what would you say,
if I went on a long sea voyage this winter?"

"What would I say? Why, my dear, I'd say that it was simply perfectly
magnificent! It sounds like--like a wedding tour, almost. A sea voyage.
Oh, Bess, do tell me!" and Cora leaned forward eagerly, expectantly.
"Are you really going?"

"It seems so, yes. Belle and I shall have to go if papa carries out