GIP LOSES HER HAT. 87

quite accustomed to falls of all descriptions,
so one more or less does not make much
difference to me, and I run off after restoring
the ladder to its original position, and getting
a nod of encouragement from Jack, who
stands as sentry, I carefully place the key
near the door under some leaves.

No sooner is this done than I hear Miss
M. calling me once more, and Jack joining
ime, we both hasten towards the house.

Miss M. is standing on the steps ready
dressed for walking, and as I make my
appearance, flushed and heated with anxiety,
she says: “I do wish you would give up
running and tearing about this hot weather;
you will certainly throw yourself into a fever
if you do not. Now go and get dressed for
your walk. We have all been waiting some
minutes.” I hear a hot dispute going on as
I cross the hall, between Freda, Tiny, and
Gip, the last of whom is dressed for walking,
all but her hat. There is a general rummage
going on among the cloaks and hats on the
stand, and as I approach the group Freda