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 "Back in five minutes," he said from the doorway.

"Hold on! Where are you going?" demanded Ned.

"Got to see Brose Wilkins a minute about—about something."

"Well, make it peppy," said Ned. "We're not going to wait for you long, old son."

Laurie's five minutes was more like fifteen, but he returned at last and they said good-by and were almost on their way when Miss Comfort sent Laurie's heart down toward his shoes. "Mr. Laurie," she asked apologetically, "I wonder if you'd mind stopping in to see me for a minute to-morrow."

"Why—why, no, ma'am," stammered Laurie. "I'd be pleased to." He exchanged meaning glances with Polly. Then Polly asked: "Why don't you stay now, Laurie, if Miss Comfort would like you to? We'll leave one of the umbrellas."

Laurie viewed her in strong disapproval but accepted the situation. "I don't need any umbrella, though," he said sadly. "I've got my coat, and it isn't raining so hard now." He and