Page:Anna Chapin--Half a dozen boys.djvu/85

Rh another with hammer and chisel, the clock struck nine, and Sam started up.

“I must go home,” he said reluctantly.

“Must you go, Sam?” asked Bess, and Ted added,—

“Oh, stay just ten minutes more. We’ll be through this word then.”

“I’d like to,” said Sam wistfully, “but I told father I’d leave at nine. You boys can stay if you want to, but I must go.”

“I am sorry you have to leave us, Sam,” said Bess; “but you are right, if you promised your father. Are you all going?” For the others had trooped to the door.

“I must,” said Bert, and the others joined him.

There was a great sorting-out of overcoats and hats, and Phil’s feet were with difficulty stowed away in his rubber boots.

“Good-night, Miss Bess; I’ve had a dandy time,” said Ted, with a wink.

“You have given us a very pleasant evening,” said Sam, with a flourish that was intended to be easy and graceful; while Phil added,—

“Tell Fred to come next time.”