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 allow me to remind the gentleman that this place down here is just about a mile and a half nearer than the poor-farm?"

"Never thought of that," laughed Bob.

"Anyway," said Polly cheerfully, "I don't believe it will matter much. If folks want Miss Comfort's cakes they'll come for them, or send for them. As for what we buy, why, I wouldn't mind coming for it a mite. It—it's just a nice walk!"

They found Mrs. Deane and Miss Comfort having tea in the sitting-room when they reached the little blue house, and their errand must needs be postponed until more cups and saucers and more sweet crackers had been distributed. At last, however, with four pair of eyes fixed on him with embarrassing attentiveness, Laurie set down his cup, drew a long breath, and broke the moment's silence with an explosive "Miss Comfort!"

That poor lady was so startled that she nearly upset her tea. Laurie plunged on hurriedly.

"I suppose you haven't heard any more from your brother-in-law, have you?"

"Why—why, no! No, I haven't, Mr. Laurie."

"Thought so," resumed Laurie. "Well, now,