Page:Nid and Nod (IA nidnod00barb).pdf/40

 Nid. The rink looks like tapioca pudding, and you can go in to your ankles anywhere you walk. Look at my shoes."

"Yes, and look at that window-seat, you crazy galoot! Why don't you wipe your dirty feet on your own cushions?"

"Oh, that'll come off." Kewpie flicked at the muddy stains with a nonchalant hand. "Say, listen. I've been trying to get hold of Nod all day. How long's he going to practise?"

"Search me. They keep at it until five or a bit after, I think. What you got on your so-called mind, Kewpie?"

Kewpie hesitated and finally decided to take Ned into his confidence. "Well, it's like this," he began impressively. "A fellow needs more exercise than he gets along this time of year, Nid. Of course, it's all right for you fellows who play-basket-ball or hockey, but I couldn't get into those things, and there isn't much else to keep you fit. Now—"

"Except pastry at the Widow Deane's, Kewpie."

Kewpie ignored the interruption. "Well, any