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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/15971-h.zip b/15971-h.zip Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..97ba99e --- /dev/null +++ b/15971-h.zip diff --git a/15971-h/15971-h.htm b/15971-h/15971-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f543356 --- /dev/null +++ b/15971-h/15971-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7931 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1"> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Polly of the Hospital Staff, by Emma C. Dowd</title> +<style type="text/css"> + body {background:white; + color:black; + font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; + margin-top:100px; + margin-left:10%; + margin-right:10%; + text-align:justify} + hr { width: 100%; + height: 5px; } + hr.narrow { width: 50%; + height: 1px; } + table {font-size:14pt; + font-weight: bold; } + a:link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:visited {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:hover {color:red} + pre {font-size: 8pt;} +</style> +</head> +<body> +<h1 align="center">The Project Gutenberg eBook, Polly of the Hospital Staff, by Emma C. Dowd, +Illustrated by Irma Deremeaux</h1> +<pre> +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at <a href = "https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></pre> +<p>Title: Polly of the Hospital Staff</p> +<p>Author: Emma C. Dowd</p> +<p>Release Date: June 3, 2005 [eBook #15971]</p> +<p>Language: English</p> +<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p> +<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF***</p> +<br><br><center><h3>E-text prepared by David Conant</h3></center><br><br> +<hr noshade> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h1>POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF</h1> + +<h3>by</h3> + +<h2>EMMA C. DOWD</h2> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<h6>Boston and New York<br> +Houghton Mifflin Company<br> +The Riverside Press Cambridge</h6> +<br> +<h4>1912</h4> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<hr class="narrow"> +<br> +<br> +To "The Mother of Polly" +<br> +<br> +<br> +<hr class="narrow"> +<br> +<br> +<a name="ILL-1"></a> + +<a href="images/flower.jpg"> +<img src="images/flower.jpg" width=450 border=0 +alt="The Story of the Wonderful White Flower"></a> +</center> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h3>Contents</h3> +<br><br> + +<table cellpadding=1> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">I. </td> <td><a href="#1" >The Cherry-Pudding Story</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">II. </td> <td><a href="#2" >The Election of Polly</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">III. </td> <td><a href="#3" >Popover</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">IV. </td> <td><a href="#4" >David</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">V. </td> <td><a href="#5" >With the Assistance of Lone Star</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">VI. </td> <td><a href="#6" >Elsie's Birthday</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">VII. </td> <td><a href="#7" >The Little Sad Lady</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">VIII. </td> <td><a href="#8" >A Warning from Aunt Jane</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">IX. </td> <td><a href="#9" >A Night of Song</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">X. </td> <td><a href="#10" >The Ward's Anniversary</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XI. </td> <td><a href="#11" >Polly Plays the part of Eva</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XII. </td> <td><a href="#12" >The Kidnapping of Polly</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XIII. </td><td><a href="#13" >The Return</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XIV. </td> <td><a href="#14" >Polly's "Anne Sisters"</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XV. </td> <td><a href="#15" >A Bid for Polly</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XVI. </td> <td><a href="#16" >A Secret</a></td> +<tr><td align="right" valign="top">XVII. </td><td><a href="#17" >The Wedding</a></td> +</table> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<br> + +<h3>Illustrations</h3> +<br> +<br> + +<table cellpadding=1> +<tr><td align="left"><a href="#ILL-1" >The Story of the Wonderful White Flower</a> — Title Page</td> +<tr><td align="left"><a href="#ILL-2" >"Once upon a Time," she began</a> — Chapter I</td> +<tr><td align="left"><a href="#ILL-3" >Forgetting all but the music she loved</a> — Chapter XV</td> +<tr><td align="left"><a href="#ILL-4" >This document makes you legally our own daughter</a> — Chapter XVII</td> +</table> +<br> +<br> +<br> + +From drawings by Irma Deremeaux<br><br> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<hr class="narrow"> +<br> +<br> +<a name="ILL-2"></a> +<a href="images/once.jpg"> +<img src="images/once.jpg" width=450 border=0 +alt="Once Upon a Time, she began"></a> +</center> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="1"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter I<br> +<br> +The Cherry-Pudding Story</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p>The June breeze hurried up from the harbor to the big house on the +hill, and fluttered playfully past the window vines into the +children's convalescent ward. It was a common saying at the +hospital that the tidal breeze always reached the children's ward +first. Sometimes the little people were waiting for it, ready +with their welcome; but to-day there were none to laugh a +greeting. The room was very quiet. The occupants of the little +white cots had slept unusually long, and the few that had awakened +from their afternoon naps were still too drowsy to be astir. +Besides, Polly was not there, and the ward was never the same +without Polly.</p> + +<p>As the young nurse in charge passed noiselessly between the rows +of beds, a small hand pulled at her apron.</p> + +<p>"Ain't it 'most time for Polly to come?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I think she will be back pretty soon now." Miss Lucy +smiled down into the wistful little face.</p> + +<p>"I want Polly to tell me a story," Elsie went on, with a bit of +a whine: "my hip aches so bad."</p> + +<p>"Does it feel worse to-day?" asked the nurse sympathetically.</p> + +<p>"No; I guess not," answered the little girl, glad of a listener. +"It aches all the time, 'cept when I'm asleep or Polly's tellin' +stories."</p> + +<p>"I know," and Miss Lucy's face grew grave. "We shall miss +Polly."</p> + +<p>"When's she goin' home?" The blue eyes went suddenly anxious.</p> + +<p>"Oh, not until next week!" was the cheerful response. "There'll +be time for plenty of stories before then."</p> + +<p>"A-h-h!" wailed little French Aimee, from the opposite cot. +"Pollee go?"</p> + +<p>"Why, yes," smiled Miss Lucy, with a quick turn. "Polly is +almost well, and well little girls don't stay at the hospital, you +know. Pretty soon you will go home, too."</p> + +<p>The nurse passed on, but Aimee's face remained clouded. Next +week—no Pollee!</p> + +<p>Other ears besides Aimee's had overheard the news about Polly. +Maggie O'Donnell and Otto Kriloff stared at each other in dismay. +Why, Polly had been there long before they came! It had never +occurred to them that Polly could leave.</p> + +<p>When Miss Lucy reached Maggie's bed, the little girl was softly +crying.</p> + +<p>"I—don't—want—Polly to go!" she sobbed.</p> + +<p>"Dear me! Dear me!" exclaimed the nurse, "this will never do!" +Then, listening, she whispered, "Hark! Who is that skipping along +the hall?"</p> + +<p>At the instant, the door opened, and a little girl, her brown eyes +shining with pleasure, her cheeks pink as the poppies on the front +lawn, and her yellow curls all tossed and tumbled by the wind, +whirled into the ward.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Polly!" passed, a breath of joy, from lip to lip.</p> + +<p>"I've had a lovelicious time!" she began.</p> + +<p>"We went 'way down to Rockmoor!—Did you ever ride in an auto, +Miss Lucy?"</p> + +<p>The nurse nodded happily. It was good to have Polly back.</p> + +<p>"Seems's if you'd never come!" broke out Elsie Meyer. "I've been +waitin' an' waitin' for a story."</p> + +<p>"I'll have my things off in a minute," responded Polly, "and +you'll say my story is worth waiting for."</p> + +<p>"A new one?"</p> + +<p>"Brand-new!"</p> + +<p>"Where'd you get it?"</p> + +<p>"A lady told me—a lady Dr. Dudley took me to see. It's a +'Cherry-Pudding Story.'—Oh, you just wait till I put my coat +and hat away, and change my dress!" Polly danced off, the young +nurse following with a soft sigh. What should she do without this +little sunshine-maker!</p> + +<p>The ward was wide awake when Polly returned. The few that were +far enough along to be up and dressed had left their cots, and +were grouped around Elsie Meyer's bed, each solicitous for the +closest seat to the story-teller.</p> + +<p>"Everybody ready?" questioned Polly, settling herself +comfortable in the little rocker. Then she popped up. "You need +this chair, Leonora, more than I do;" and before the lame girl +had time to protest the exchange had been made.</p> + +<p>"Polly, talk loud, so I can hear!" piped up a shrill voice in +the corner of the ward.</p> + +<p>"Sure I will, Linus," was the cherry response. "You must n't +miss a word of the 'Cherry-Pudding story.'"</p> + +<p>"Once upon a time," she began, in the beautiful old way that all +fanciful stories should begin; and not the breath of a rustle +broke the sound of her gentle voice, while she narrated the +fortunes of the young king who loved stories so much that he +decided to wed only the girl that would write him a fresh one +every day.</p> + +<p>As the little people followed the outcome of the royal edict, +their interest grew intense, for Polly was a real story-teller, +sweeping her listeners along with the narrative until all else was +forgotten.</p> + +<p>When after long despairing days, young King Cerise found his +future queen in the very last girl, one who lived her stories +instead of writing them, and was as charming and good as she was +clever, the small folks became radiantly glad, and the tale drew +to a happy end with the king and queen living beautiful stories +and cherry puddings in every home all over the land.</p> + +<p>Nobody spoke as Polly stopped. Then little Linus, away over in +the corner, piped up:—</p> + +<p>"I wasn't some cherry pudding!"</p> + +<p>Than made them laugh, and set the tongues going.</p> + +<p>"Aw, ye'll have ter wait till ye git home!" returned Cornelius +O'Shaughnessy.</p> + +<p>"Why will he? Why can't we all have some, Miss Lucy?"</p> + +<p>The rest fairly held their breath at Elsie Meyer's boldness.</p> + +<p>The nurse laughed. "Perhaps," she began slowly,—"mind, I +don't say for sure, but only perhaps,—if you'll all live a +brave, patient, cheerful story, with never a bit of a whine in it, +from now until to-morrow noon,—well, who knows what may +happen!"</p> + +<p>"A cherry pudding may!" cried the irrepressible Elsie. "Oh, Miss +Lucy, I won't whine or cry, no matter how bad you hurt my hip when +you dress it—not the teentiest bit! See if I do!"</p> + +<p>"Will Polly make up our stories for us?" queried Leonora Hewitt.</p> + +<p>"Why, Miss Lucy has made one for all of us," laughed Polly. "We +are to be brave and patient and not make a fuss about anything, +and help everybody else to be happy—is n't that what you +meant, Miss Lucy?"</p> + +<p>"Oh," replied the little lame girl, "guess that'll be a hard +kind!"</p> + +<p>"Beautiful stories are not often easy to live," smiled the young +nurse; "but let's see which of us can live the best one."</p> + +<p>"Polly will!" cried Maggie O'Donnell and Otto Kriloff together.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="2"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter II<br> +<br> +The Election of Polly</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p>The convalescent ward was finishing its noonday feast when Miss +Hortensia Price appeared. Miss Hortensia Price was straight and +tall, with somber black eyes and thin, serious lips. Many of the +children were greatly in awe of the dignified nurse; but Elsie +Meyer was bold enough to announce:—</p> + +<p>"We're livin' a cherry-pudding story!" And she beamed up from +her ruby-colored plate.</p> + +<p>"What?" scowled the visitor.</p> + +<p>The tone was puzzled rather tan harsh, yet Elsie shrank back in +sudden abashment.</p> + +<p>"Polly told us a story yesterday," explained Miss Lucy, the pink +deepening on her delicate cheeks, "and it made the children want +some cherry pudding for dinner. It is not rich," she added +apologetically.</p> + +<p>The elder nurse responded only with a courteous "Oh!" and then +remarked, "What I came down to say is this: I shall send you +three cases from my ward at half-past two o'clock this afternoon."</p> + +<p>"All right," was the cordial answer. "We shall be glad to +welcome them to our little family."</p> + +<p>"High Price is awful solemn to-day," whispered Maggie O'Donnell +to Ethel Jones, as the door shut.</p> + +<p>"High Price?" repeated Ethel, in a perplexed voice.</p> + +<p>"Sh!" breathed the other. "She's 'High Price,' and Miss Lucy's +'Low Price,' 'cause she's so high and mighty and tall and +everything, and Miss Lucy's kind o' short and little and so +darling, and they ain't any relation either. I'm glad they +ain't," she added decidedly. "I would n't have Miss Lucy related +to her for anything!"</p> + +<p>"Oh, no!" returned Ethel, comprehendingly, as she scraped her +plate for a last morsel of pudding.</p> + +<p>The three "cases," which appeared in the convalescent ward +promptly at the hour named, proved to be two girls and a boy,— +Brida MacCarthy, Isabel Smith, and Moses Cohn. Polly did her +share in routing the evident fears of the small strangers, their +wide, anxious eye showing that they dreaded what might lie ahead +of them in these unknown quarters.</p> + +<p>The wonderful giant story, which ended merrily,—as all of +Polly's stories did end,—made Moses her valiant follower as +long as he remained in the ward; the tender little slumber song, +which Polly's mother had taught her, put the tiny Isabel to sleep; +and the verses about the "Kit-Cat Luncheon" completely won the +heart of Irish Brida.</p> + +<p>"I got a kitty, too!" she confided. "Her name's Popover, 'cause +when the kitties was all little, an' runnin' round, an' playin', +she'd pop right over on her back, jus' as funny! She's all black +concept[sic] a little spot o' white—oh, me kitty is the +prettiest kitty in town!"</p> + +<p>"How shall I ever get along without her!" sighed the young +nurse, as she watched Polly flitting about like a sprite, +comforting restless little patients, hushing, with her ready tact, +quarrelsome tongues, and winning every heart by her gentle, loving +ways. Oh, the ward would be lonely indeed without Polly May! +None realized this more than Miss Lucy, unless it were Dr. Dudley, +the cherry house physician, whom all the children adored.</p> + +<p>As the day set for Polly's going came near and nearer, the +mourning of the small convalescents increased, until the ward +would have been in danger of continual tears if it had not been +for Polly herself. She was gayer than ever, telling the funniest +stories and singing the merriest songs, and making her little +friends half forget that the good times were not going to last. +The children never guessed that this was almost as much to help +herself over the hard place as to cheer them. In fact, they +believed that her unusual high spirits came of her being glad to +leave the hospital. Even Miss Lucy could n't quite understand it +all. But Dr. Dudley knew; he had seen her face when she had been +told that she was soon to go.</p> + +<p>It was not strange that Polly should dread parting from the people +with whom she had been so happy, for no mother or father or +pleasant home was waiting for her,—only Aunt Jane, in the +cramped, dingy little tenement,—Aunt Jane and her six unruly +girls and boys. Poly did not permit herself to think much about +going away, however, and the last evening found her cheerful +still. Then Elsie Meyer began her doleful suggestions.</p> + +<p>"I wonder how often your Aunt Jane 'll let you come and see us. +P'r'aps she won't let you come at all—oh, my! If she don't, +maybe we'll never see you again!"</p> + +<p>"Nonsense, Elsie! Don't go to conjuring up any such thing!" +broke in Miss Lucy's laughing voice. "Of course—why, Polly!" +For the little girl had been brought suddenly face to face with an +awful possibility, and her courage had given way. She was sobbing +on the foot of Elsie's bed.</p> + +<p>A low rap on the half-open door sent Miss Lucy thither, and Polly +heard Dr. Dudley speak her name. A new terror took instant +possession of her heart. The Doctor had come to take her home! +She did not stop to reason. Dropping to the floor, she crept +softly under the cot, from there to the next and the next. Her +course was straight to the door through which the physician had +entered, and by the time he was halfway across the room she had +wriggled herself clear of the last cot, and was over the sill and +in the corridor, the twilight aiding her escape. Regaining her +feet, she darted noiselessly down the long hall. At the head of +the stairs she paused. On the floor below was a small alcove +where she might hide. Making sure that no one was in sight, she +sped down, but as she reached the lower step one of the nurses +opened the door opposite.</p> + +<p>"What are you doing down here, Polly May?"</p> + +<p>The question was pleasant, but the answer was miserably halting.</p> + +<p>"I—I—thought—I'd just—come—"</p> + +<p>"Did Miss Price send you for anything?"</p> + +<p>This time the child detected a ring of suspicion.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no! I—I—"</p> + +<p>"Well, you'd better go right back. It is too late to be running +around for play. The halls must be kept quiet."</p> + +<p>"Yes, Miss Bemont," responded Polly meekly, and turned to see +Dr. Dudley at the head of the flight.</p> + +<p>There was nothing to do but to go forward, which she did, with +downcast eyes and a throbbing heart.</p> + +<p>"Oh, here you are!" exclaimed the physician. "I've been looking +for you. I thought you would like to take a ride up to +Warringford. I shall be back before your bedtime, and Miss Lucy +says—why, Thistledown! What is the matter?"</p> + +<p>The revulsion had been to great, and, leaning against the Doctor's +arm, Polly was softly sobbing.</p> + +<p>The physician sat down on the stairs, and drew the fair little +head to his shoulder. In a minute he knew it all,—the sudden +fear that had assailed her, the creeping flight across the ward, +and the baffled attempt at hiding. As he listened, his eyes grew +grave and tender, for in the broken little confession he +comprehended the child's unspoken abhorrence of the life she had +left behind when she had come to the hospital five months before.</p> + +<p>"I would n't worry about going back to Aunt Jane's," he said +brightly. "You may be sure I shan't let her monopolize my little +Polly. Now, run along and get on your hat and coat, for the air is +growing cool. We'll have a nice spin up to Warringford, and +you'll sleep all the better for it."</p> + +<p>Polly skipped away smiling, but presently was down in the office, +—without her wraps.</p> + +<p>"The children feel so bad to have me go," she said soberly, "I +guess I'd better stay with them—seeing it's the last night." +Her lip quivered.</p> + +<p>"Selfish little pigs!" returned the Doctor. "They are n't +willing anybody else shall have a taste of you."</p> + +<p>Polly laughed. "Well, they want me to tell them a story, so I'd +better, don't you think?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose it's kinder to them than to go for a joy ride; but +it's hard on me."</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley assumed a scowl of disapproval.</p> + +<p>The child hesitated. "You know I'd rather go with you," she said +sweetly; "but they—"</p> + +<p>"I understand all about it, brave little woman," throwing an arm +around the slender shoulders, "and I won't make it any harder for +you. Go and tell your story, and let it be a merry one. +Remember, that's the Doctor's order! Good-night."</p> + +<p>Polly threw him a kiss from the doorway, and then he heard her +light footfalls on the stairs.</p> + +<p>It was one of his few leisure hours, and he sat for a long time +looking out on the quiet street, where his small motor car stood +waiting. He had no inclination for a spin to Warringford now; he +was thinking too deeply about the little girl who had held so +large a share of his big heart since the day when he had first +seen her, lying so white and still, with the life all but crushed +out of her. It had not seemed possible then that she would ever +again dance around like the other children; yet her she was, +without even the bit of a limp—and going home to-morrow! Home! +He could imagine the kind of place it was, and he shook his head +gravely over the picture. Twice in the first months of Polly's +stay at the hospital her aunt had been to visit her; recently she +had not appeared. He recollected her well,—a tall, lean +woman, with unshapely garments, and a strident voice.</p> + +<p>At eight o'clock Dr. Dudley cranked up his machine, and started +away; but he did not go in the direction of Warringford. He +turned down one of the narrow streets that led to Aunt Jane's +home.</p> + +<p>Meantime, up in the ward, Polly had been following the Doctor's +directions until the children had laughed themselves happy.</p> + +<p>"I did n't let on that I saw you scoot under the bed when the +Doctor came," Elsie Meyer whispered to Polly, at the first +chance. "Aimee saw you, an' Brida saw you, an' Francesca saw +you; but we did n't say nothin' when Miss Lucy an' the Doctor was +wonderin' where you could be. What made you go that way?"</p> + +<p>"Come, Polly, say good-night," called the nurse.</p> + +<p>And with a soft, "I'll tell you sometime, Elsie," she obeyed.</p> + +<p>The next morning Polly went about the little helpful tasks that +she had, one after another, taken upon herself, performing each +with even more than her usual care, feeling a strange ache in her +heart at the thought of its being the last time.</p> + +<p>It was shortly after ten o'clock that Dr. Dudley appeared at the +door.</p> + +<p>"Polly!" he called.</p> + +<p>She ran to him, but her answering smile was pathetic, for her lip +quivered, as she said, "I'll be ready in a minute."</p> + +<p>"You are ready now," he returned, and taking her hand in his led +her out into the hall.</p> + +<p>"I want you for a little while," was all he said, as they went +downstairs together.</p> + +<p>Poly was a bit surprised when she found that their destination was +the great room where the "Board" was in session, but she could +not be afraid with Dr. Dudley; so she smiled to all the gentlemen, +and answered their questions in her soft, sweet voice, and behaved +quite like the little lady that the physician had pictured to +them.</p> + +<p>Presently Dr. Dudley left her, while he talked in low tones with +the white-haired man at the head of the long table. When he came +back, he asked:—</p> + +<p>"Polly, how should you like to stay here at the hospital all +summer, and help Miss Lucy and me to take care of your little +friends?"</p> + +<p>The light that flashed into Polly's brown eyes gave them the gleam +of a sunny brook. She clasped her small hands ecstatically, +crying, "O—o—h! it would be—super-bon-donjical!"</p> + +<p>The gentlemen laughed, the tall, white-haired one until his +shoulders shook. Then he rapped on the table, and said something +about "Miss Polly May," to which the little girl did n't pay +much attention, and there was a big chorus of ayes. After that +Polly bade them all good-bye, and went upstairs with Dr. Dudley.</p> + +<p>"Children, I have something to tell you," the physician +announced.</p> + +<p>Everybody was at once alert. A solemn hush fell on the ward.</p> + +<p>"What do you think?" he went on;—"Polly May is a full-fledged +member of the hospital staff!"</p> + +<p>Nobody spoke. Nobody even smiled but Miss Lucy. Black eyes and +brown eyes, blue eyes and gray eyes stared uncomprehendingly at +the Doctor.</p> + +<p>"You don't quite understand that, do you?" he laughed. "Well, it +means that Polly is n't going home to her aunt. Polly is going to +stay with you!"</p> + +<p>Then what squeals and shouts and shrieks of joy from all over the +ward!</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="3"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter III<br> +<br> +Popover</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p>For a week the convalescent ward laughed and sang and almost +forgot that it was part of the big House of Suffering. Polly +herself beamed on everybody, and all the hospital people seemed to +agree that very good fortune had come to her, and to be glad in +it.</p> + +<p>Then there came a hot day which tried the patience of the small +invalids. Polly flitted from cot to cot with her little +fluttering fan and her cooling drinks. The afternoon breeze had +not yet arrived when Brida MacCarthy begged for a story.</p> + +<p>"It will have to be and old one," was the smiling response, for +Polly's supply of cat tales—the kind which the little Irish +girl invariably wanted—was limited.</p> + +<p>"I don't care what 't is," whined Brida,—"anything 'bout a +kitty. Oh, don't I wisht I had me own darlin' Popover right here +in me arms!—Why don't yer begin?" urged the fretful voice, +for Polly sat gazing at the polished floor.</p> + +<p>A kindly, fascinating scheme was taking shape in the story-teller's +brain.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Brida," she cried, in suppressed eagerness, lowering her +voice to a whisper that should not reach Miss Lucy at the other +end of the ward, "I've thought of the loveliest thing! Your home +is n't very far from here, is it?"</p> + +<p>"A good ways—why?" and Brida's little pale, freckled face +showed only mild interest.</p> + +<p>"But where do you live—when you're home?" Polly insisted.</p> + +<p>"'T 739 Liberty Street is right down by Union! I can find that +easy enough! Say, don't you s'pose your mother 'd let me take +Popover and bring her up here? You know Miss Lucy wants me to go +out to walk every day now."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Polly!" the pale face grew pink with joy. "Sure, me mother +'d let her come! Oh, Polly, if you would!"</p> + +<p>"I will! And I won't say a word to Miss Lucy about it till +Popover is here! It's her birthday to-day, and it'll be such a +beautiful surprise! I've been wishing and wishing we had +something to give her."</p> + +<p>"Oh, not me darlin' kitty!" returned Brida, in sudden dismay.</p> + +<p>"No, no!" laughed Polly reassuringly. "I only meant the +surprise. Popover can amuse the whole ward, and won't Miss Lucy +be pleased!"</p> + +<p>"It'll be splendid!" beamed Brida. "How'd yer ever think of +it?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know; but I'm glad I did," Polly went on happily. "And +perhaps we can keep her a week or so, if we'll let her have a +little of our milk—just you and I. You would n't mind, would +you?"</p> + +<p>"Sure, I'll let her have all she can drink!" declared Brida.</p> + +<p>"I guess I'd better go now," said Polly. "What is the number +7––––"</p> + +<p>"It's 739 Liberty Street," repeated Brida; "an old brown house +next to the corner."</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy thought it was rather too warm for a walk, especially as +Polly was not very strong yet; but the little girl urged it with +such sparkling eyes that she finally let her go, bidding her keep +on the shady side of the street and not to stay out too long.</p> + +<p>Polly reached Liberty Street where it was crossed by Union, but +was taken somewhat aback when she looked at a number on the west +side and found it to be only 452.</p> + +<p>"Never mind!" was her second thought; "there are not quite three +hundred numbers more, and half of those are on the other side; +besides, they skip lots of them."</p> + +<p>So she walked on contentedly, keeping track of the numbers as +she passed along. They counted up fast, the houses were so +thickly set. Polly thought the occupants must all be out of +doors, for lounging men and women filled the doorways, and the +sidewalks were scattered with children. The air grew hot and +stifling and full of disagreeable odors. The little girl half +wished that she had not come. Then she remembered how pleased +Brida would be to see her kitten again, and that gave her new +strength and courage.</p> + +<p>She was very tired when she came to the little shop numbered 703; +but with the glad thought that the "brown house" could not be +far off she began to look for it.</p> + +<p>Directly across her way was stretched a jumping rope, which, as +she was about to step over, the girls at either end whirled up in +front of her. To the astonishment of the mischievous tricksters, +Polly skipped into time as adroitly as the most expert rope-jumper +could have wished, and the giggling pair almost forgot their part. +But they recovered themselves to give Polly a half-dozen skips. +Then, clearing the rope with a graceful bound, she turned to one +of the girls.</p> + +<p>"Can you tell me, please, where Mrs. MacCarthy lives?—Brida +MacCarthy's mother?"</p> + +<p>With a second surprise on her freckled face, the child pointed to a +fat, red-cheeked woman, who was cooling herself with a big palm-leaf +fan, in a basement doorway just beyond.</p> + +<p>"Thank you," was the polite response, and Polly descended the +short flight of steps into the bricked area.</p> + +<p>The woman looked up expectantly.</p> + +<p>"I'm Polly May, of the hospital staff," the little girl +announced modestly, "and Brida would like her kitten, please."</p> + +<p>The smile on Mrs. MacCarthy's face expanded into a big, joyous +laugh.</p> + +<p>"Does she now? Moira! Katie! D'ye here that? Brida's sint f'r her +cat! Sure an' she moost be gittin' 'long rale well! An' ye're +from th' hospital! Moira! Where's yer manners? Fetch th' little +lady a chair! Katie, git a mug o' wather an' wan o' thim big +crackers. Don't ye know how to trate comp'ny?"</p> + +<p>In a minute Polly was seated, a china mug of water in one hand, +and a crisp soda biscuit in the other, while the MacCarthy family +circled around her, eager for news from the beloved Brida. There +were only encouraging accounts to give of the little girl with the +broken ankle; but they led to so many questions that Polly began +to wonder how she should ever escape from these friendly people, +when Popover herself solved the question.</p> + +<p>The pretty black kitten suddenly appeared at the visitor's side, +and at the first caressing word from Polly jumped into her lap.</p> + +<p>"D' ye see that?" cried the delighted mother, and in the +momentary excitement Polly arose and said that she must go.</p> + +<p>Brida's sisters and small brother accompanied her for two blocks +up the street, and then, with numerous good-byes, they left her to +her long, wearisome walk.</p> + +<p>She had not gone far before she realized that the warm little +animal was more of a burden than she had counted on, exhausted as +she was already with her unusual exercise; but she kept up +courageously, even making little spurts of speed as she would +wonder if Miss Lucy were becoming anxious about her. After +awhile, however, instead of hurrying, she was obliged to stop now +and then on a corner, to catch the breeze coming up from the sea, +for she felt strangely faint. When she finally trudged up +Hospital Hill, the air grew cool all at once, and she quite forgot +herself for thinking of Brida and Miss Lucy.</p> + +<p>At the door of the ward she paused for a peep. The nurse was not +in sight. A few of the children were gathered at the windows with +books and pictures; several were on the floor playing quiet games. +So softly did she step that nobody knew she was there until she +was well in the room. The, spying both her and the kitten, there +was a shout and a rush.</p> + +<p>"No, you can't have her yet!" cried Polly, as small hands were +outstretched to lift the now uneasy burden from her arms. "Brida +has first right, because it's her kitten."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Popover!" squealed the little owner delightedly, snuggling +the furry creature to her cheek.</p> + +<p>"Where's Miss Lucy?" demanded Polly, waiving the children's +eager questions.</p> + +<p>"Oh, they sent to have her come somewhere!" answered Ethel +Jones. "She went in an awful hurry, and said prob'ly she'd be +back pretty soon; but she has n't come yet."</p> + +<p>"She let Leonora be monitor," put in Elsie Meyer. "I guess she'd +'a' let me, if I'd been up."</p> + +<p>"I wish she would come," said Polly anxiously, "for I want to +surprise her with Popover—it's Miss Lucy's birthday, you +know."</p> + +<p>"Somebody's coming now," and Cornelius O'Shaughnessy bent his +head to listen. "'T ain't her step," he decided disappointedly, +and the next moment the tall form of Miss Hortensia Price was seen +in the doorway.</p> + +<p>"Quick! Keep her out o' sight!" whispered Polly, pushing +Popover's little black head down under the sheet.</p> + +<p>The stately young woman walked the length of the room without a +word, and calmly sat down at the small table where Miss Lucy was +accustomed to prepare her medicines and to make such notes as were +needful.</p> + +<p>As Miss Price took up the little memorandum book and began to look +it over, Polly's heart almost stood still with consternation. She +had come to stay! Polly knew the signs. Such sudden shifts were +common enough in the hospital, but only twice, during Polly's +stay, had the occurred in the convalescent ward, and Miss Lucy had +been in charge for so long now that she had ceased giving herself +any worry over a possible change.</p> + +<p>For a moment the little girl stood hesitant; then the sight of +Brida, white and scared on her pillow, roused her to quick +thought. If she could only smuggle Popover down into Dr Dudley's +office before she was discovered! Instinct told her that "High +Price" would never tolerate a kitten in the ward. She took one +step forward.</p> + +<p>"Me-ew!" sounded faintly from Brida's cot.</p> + +<p>The nurse raised her head, listened inquiringly, and then resumed +her work of examining the patients' records.</p> + +<p>Polly stole nearer the bed.</p> + +<p>"Me-ew!" came again, louder than before. This time there was no +mistaking its locality.</p> + +<p>Miss Price sprang from her chair, and strode straight to where +Brida lay trembling. Popover's insistence for more air and a free +outlook was causing the coverlet to rise and fall in a startling +way.</p> + +<p>"How came that cat here?" demanded the nurse, pulling aside the +bedclothing.</p> + +<p>"I brought her," answered Polly. "She's Brida's kitty, and we +were going to give Miss Lucy a birthday surprise."</p> + +<p>A faint smile flickered on the young woman's face. The she made +a grab at the now frightened kitten; but the little creature +slipped from her hand, and jumping to the floor dared towards the +hall.</p> + +<p>"Oh, me dirlin' kitty!" wailed Brida. "She'll be losted! Oh, +Polly, ketch her!"</p> + +<p>Polly, however, was already flying in pursuit of the terrified +cat.</p> + +<p>"Shut that door!" called the mistress of the ward, as the eager +children rushed after. "And stay inside, all of you!"</p> + +<p>Cornelius O'Shaughnessy reluctantly obeyed the first order, and +the rest trailed back in disappointment. So exciting a race was +not an everyday occurrence.</p> + +<p>Polly, too far away to heed either command, was alarmed lest +Popover might manage to escape from the building, in which case +there would be small chance of catching her. On and on the little +cat led her, giving no ear to the coaxing, "Kitty, Kitty, +Kitty!" which she was constantly calling. Around and around the +big halls, up this flight of stairs and down that, into room after +room whose doors stood enticingly open, raced Popover and Poly, +while nurses and physicians that chanced their way stared and +laughed at the astonishing sight.</p> + +<p>Just as the kitten reached the foot of the first-floor staircase, +with her pursuer close behind, the front door opened, and Popover +darted towards the passage of escape.</p> + +<p>"Oh, shut the door quick! Catch her! Catch her! Don't let her get +out!"</p> + +<p>This most unexpected command, in Polly's voice, Dr. Dudley +endeavored to obey. He did succeed in slamming the door in front +of pussy, though at the risk of nipping her little black nose; but +when he stooped to snatch her she slipped between his feet, and +dashed into his office. Polly flew after, and the door went +together just as the Doctor reached it.</p> + +<p>"Rather an unusual reception this is," he twinkled, as Polly let +him in, a minute later. "Frighten me out of my wits by screaming +at me to catch a wild animal, and then, when I've done my best, +shut the door of my office right in my face! What do you mean by +such extraordinary conduct, Miss Polly May?" The physician shook +a threatening finger and the flushed and laughing little girl.</p> + +<p>"You don't look very scared," she giggled; and then as he +dropped into his lounging-chair she slipped into her favorite +position, atilt on its arm, and leaned confidingly against him.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I've had such a time with that kitten!" she sighed, smiling +across at the little creature, now curled up contentedly on the +Doctor's fur rug.</p> + +<p>"I take it, by the way you are breathing, that you and the cat +have been having a race."</p> + +<p>"All over everywhere," answered Polly, "till I thought I'd never +catch her. You see she was going to be a birthday surprise to +Miss Lucy, and High Price went and spoiled it all."</p> + +<p>The story of the afternoon was narrated in Polly's most vivid +style.</p> + +<p>"Is n't it queer that High Price should come just then?" she +sighed. "I don't like her; do you?"</p> + +<p>"She is an excellent young woman and a good nurse," Dr. Dudley +returned.</p> + +<p>"Well, I don't want her for my nurse," Polly maintained soberly.</p> + +<p>"Still, if you were very sick," smiled the Doctor, "I could not +hope for better care than she would give you."</p> + +<p>"Oh, if I were awfully sick, and out of my head, maybe High Price +would do; but if I knew anything I should want Miss Lucy." And +Polly's curls waved in emphasis.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley chuckled responsively.</p> + +<p>"I don't think you appreciate Miss Lucy," Polly continued.</p> + +<p>The Doctor's eyebrows went up. "Don't I?" he returned meekly.</p> + +<p>"You don't act as if you did," Polly sighed; "and I want you to, +for she's so sweet and little and—cuddly, you know. You could +n't call High Price cuddly; could you?"</p> + +<p>"It is n't a term I should apply to her," agreed the Doctor, +with the hint of a smile.</p> + +<p>"Miss Lucy would have liked Popover going to get along without +Miss Lucy, 'specially at bedtime."</p> + +<p>"What does she do then?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, we tell stories!—at least, I do, and sometimes she does, +and generally we sing—real soft, you know, so it won't disturb +anybody. Then she says a little prayer, and we go to bed. Dear +me, how we shall miss her! Why, the other night, when Aimee's arm +ached, Miss Lucy took her right in her lap, and rocked her to +sleep! And when little Isabel cries for her mamma, Miss Lucy's +just as nice to her, and cuddles her p so sweet! This is the way +High Price will do: she'll say, 'Is-a-bel'" (and Polly's tone was +in almost exact imitation of the nurse's measured accent), "'lie +still and go to sleep! The ward must be kept quiet.'"</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley laughed. Then the said gravely:—</p> + +<p>"Do you think that is really fair—to accuse Miss Price of +what she may never do? Besides, Polly, it is n't quite +respectful."</p> + +<p>"No, I suppose it is n't," the little girl admitted. "Excuse me, +please. But I wish you could know the difference between High +Price and Low Price."</p> + +<p>The Doctor's eyes twinkled; but Polly, all unseeing, went on:—</p> + +<p>"How soon do you think Miss Lucy'll come back? Where is she +now?"</p> + +<p>"She has been assigned to one of the women's wards. It is +uncertain when she will be changed again."</p> + +<p>"Well, I s'pose we'll have to stand it," sighed Polly +philosophically. "Why, Popover!" for the kitten had come up +unnoticed, and now jumped to the Doctor's knee. "Is n't she cute? +Brida thinks lots of her—there!" she broke out compunctiously, +"I forgot all about Brida, and she does n't know what's become of +her! I must run up and tell her. Will it be very much trouble +to keep her here till to-morrow? Thin I'll carry her home."</p> + +<p>"Suppose we taker her home in the auto, after tea?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, lovely!"</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley was looking at his watch.</p> + +<p>"Is it 'most tea-time?" Polly inquired.</p> + +<p>"They are probably all through up in the convalescent ward," he +laughed. "You'd better come into the dining-room and have supper +with me."</p> + +<p>"Oh, thank you; that will be nice! I'll run up and tell Brida, +and then I'll come."</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="4"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter IV<br> +<br> +David</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p>Dr. Dudley had been the rounds of the convalescent ward, to see +how his patients were progressing. Now he had paused at the small +table by the window, where Polly was waiting to carry some +medicine to Linus Hardy.</p> + +<p>As she took the glass form Miss Price's hand, and started away, +she heard the physician say, "Can I have Polly for a few +minutes?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly, Dr. Dudley," was the reply; and Polly returned +wondering what was wanted of her.</p> + +<p>"There is a boy upstairs who is getting discouraged," the Doctor +began, as they went through the hall, and in hand, "and I think, +perhaps, you can cheer him up a little."</p> + +<p>"Is he a big boy or a little boy?" asked Polly anxiously.</p> + +<p>"I should say, about six months bigger than you," the Doctor +laughed. "He Is n't anybody you will be afraid of, Thistledown; +but he is a very nice boy. His mother is just recovering from a +sever illness, so she has n't been able to come to see him yet, +and he feels pretty lonely."</p> + +<p>"I wish he were down in our ward," returned Polly,—"that +is," she amended, "if Miss Lucy were only there."</p> + +<p>"I shall have him transferred as soon as he is well enough," the +Doctor assured her. And then they were at the entrance of the +children's ward.</p> + +<p>Away to the farther end of the room Dr. Dudley went, and Polly +followed. Some of the patients looked curiously at her as she +passed, for the news of her recent accession to the staff had +spread through the hospital, and nearly everybody was eager for a +sight of her.</p> + +<p>Polly was thinking only of the boy whom she had come to see; and +when, at last, the Doctor stopped and turned towards her, she +glanced shyly at the lad on the pillow.</p> + +<p>"David," began Dr. Dudley, "this is Miss Polly May, the chief +story-tell of the convalescent ward. And, Polly, allow me to +present Master David Collins, who had a race a week or two ago, +with a runaway horse, and who was foolish enough to let the horse +beat."</p> + +<p>The Doctor's eyes were twinkling, and Polly let go a giggle; so +the boy ventured to laugh. A week little laugh it was; but it +helped to start the acquaintance pleasantly, which was just what +Dr. Dudley wanted.</p> + +<p>"You can have exactly ten minutes to do all your talking in," +was the physician's parting sally; "so you'd better hurry."</p> + +<p>Polly's eyes and David's met in smiling appreciation.</p> + +<p>"He says such funny things." praised Polly.</p> + +<p>Polly did n't quite know how to begin to cheer the lad up. Her +tender heart was stirred to unusual sympathy, as she gazed into +the pitifully drawn little face, with its big doll-blue eyes. She +must surely say something to make David happier—and the +minutes were going fast. After all, it was David that was first +to speak again.</p> + +<p>"Do you like stories?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I just love them!"</p> + +<p>"So do I. You must know a great many. The Doctor said you told +them to the children. I wish there was time for you to tell me +one."</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid there is n't to-day," responded Polly; "but maybe I +can stay longer when I come again."</p> + +<p>"I hope so," returned David politely. "My mother read me a story +the evening before I was hurt. It was about a king and queen that +lived beautiful stories, and I was going to live such a brave, +splendid one every day—and then the horse knocked me down! +Such a lot of miserable stories as I've lived since I came here, +not much like the ones I'd planned! But to-day's will be better, +because you'll be in it," he ended brightly.</p> + +<p>Polly's eyes had been growing rounder and rounder with surprise +and delight.</p> + +<p>"Oh! Was it a Cherry-Pudding Story?" she asked eagerly.</p> + +<p>"Why, have you read it?" and the little white face actually grew +pink. "My aunt wrote it, and sent us a paper that had it in!"</p> + +<p>"Why—ee!" cried Polly. "is n't that funny! And we've been +trying to live nice stories, too—all of us, up in the ward! +Miss Lucy said we'd see which could live the best one. A lady +told me the story. And your aunt really made it all up?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; she writes lots of stories," smiled David. "Then she sends +them to mamma and me and wen they're printed."</p> + +<p>"How splendid!" beamed Polly. "When you get well enough to come +down in our ward, you can tell us some, can't you?"</p> + +<p>The boy's face saddened. "I guess I can't ever come," he said.</p> + +<p>"Why not?"</p> + +<p>"Because I was hurt so badly. I don't think I'm going to get +well."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, you will!" asserted Polly. "Of course Dr. Dudley will +cure you! Goodness! You ought to have seen how I was all smashed +up! But Dr. Dudley cured me—he can cure anybody!"</p> + +<p>"He can?" echoed David, a little doubtfully. "How 'd you get +hurt? Were you run over?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, by a building," Polly laughed. "Only it did n't run; it +fell. I was 'way up on the third floor, and all of a sudden it +went—just like that!" Polly's little hands dropped flat in +her lap. "I heard a great noise, and felt myself going, and I +remember I clutched hold of Uncle Gregory. Then I did n't know +another thing till I woke up over in that corner. See that bed +with the dark-haired little girl in it, the third from the end? +That was my cot."</p> + +<p>"Was your leg broken?" asked David, in a most interested tone.</p> + +<p>"Yes, my leg was broken, and my hip was <i>discolated</i> (Polly +sometimes twisted her long words a little), and my ankle was +hurt, and two ribs, and, oh, lots of things! Doctor says now that +he really did n't think I'd ever walk again—I mean, without +crutches."</p> + +<p>"And you're not lame a bit?" David returned incredulously.</p> + +<p>"Not a mite, not the least mite!" Polly assured him.</p> + +<p>"Then perhaps I shall get well," the boy began brightly.</p> + +<p>"Of course you will!" broke in Dr. Dudley's happy voice.</p> + +<p>He put his hand on the lad's wrist, and stood for a moment, noting +his pulse.</p> + +<p>"It does n't seem to hurt you to have visitors," he smiled; "but +they must n't stay too long. Say good-bye, Polly."</p> + +<p>"Will you bring her again tomorrow?" invited David timidly. "And +let her stay long enough to tell me a story?"</p> + +<p>"I should n't wonder," the Doctor promised. And they left the +boy smiling as he had not smiled since he had been in the +hospital.</p> + +<p>After that, Polly went every day to see David, until, one morning, +Dr. Dudley told her that he was not quite well enough to have a +visitor. She had come to look forward to her quiet talks with the +blue-eyed lad as the happiest portion of the whole day, for Miss +Hortensia Price still stayed in the convalescent ward, and the +Doctor had been too busy to take her out in his automobile. Elsie +and Brida and Aimee and the rest were all good comrades, yet none +of them possessed David's powers of quick comprehension. Often +Polly had to explain things to them; David always kept up with her +thought—there was the difference. And David, notwithstanding +his present proneness to discouragement, was a most winsome boy.</p> + +<p>So the first day that she was not allowed to maker her customary +visit seemed a long day indeed, and eagerly she awaited the next +morning. But several days passed before she again saw David. +Then it was but for a very few minutes, and he was so wan and weak +that she went away feeling sorrowful and anxious. Yet Dr. Dudley +told her that she had done his patient good. That was a slight +comfort.</p> + +<p>The next day, and the next, the lad was again too ill for company, +and a few sentences which Polly overheard filled her with +foreboding. She was putting fresh sheets on one of the cots—a +task which she had learned to do well—when she caught David's +name.</p> + +<p>"His heart is very weak," one of the stairs nurses was saying to +Miss Price. "He can't stand many more such sinking spells. Dr. +Dudley has given orders to be called at once, day or night, if he +should have another."</p> + +<p>Here the voice dropped, and Polly could not catch the words; but +she had heard enough. The sheet went on crookedly. Polly did not +know it, her eyes were so blurred with tears. She kept the sorry +news to herself, and all day long the children wondered what made +Polly so sober.</p> + +<p>If she could have seen Dr. Dudley she would have asked him about +David; but for several days she caught only passing glimpses of +him, when he was too busy to be questioned. The little girl grew +more and more anxious, but kept hoping that because she heard +nothing David must be better.</p> + +<p>It was during the short absence of Miss Price, one afternoon, that +Elsie Meyer complained of the disagreeable liniment on her hip.</p> + +<p>"It's just horrid! I can't stand it a minute longer!" she fretted. +"Say, Polly, I wish you'd spray some of that nice-smellin' stuff +around—what do you call it?"</p> + +<p>"The resodarizer, I guess you mean," responded Polly, with more +glibness than accuracy.</p> + +<p>"Yes, that's it," Elsie returned. "Hurry up and use it, before +High Price gets back!"</p> + +<p>"Perhaps I'd better wait and ask her," she hesitated.</p> + +<p>"No, don't! Miss Lucy always lets you take it," Elsie urged.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I know," doubtfully. Then she went to the shelf in the +dressing-room, where the atomizer box stood.</p> + +<p>"There is n't a drop in it," she said, holding the bottle to the +light. "Miss Lucy must have forgotten to fill it after I used it +last time." Then, spying a small phial on the shelf, close to +where the box had been, "Oh I guess she left it for me to fill!" +And, unscrewing the chunky little bottle from the spraying +apparatus, she soon had it half full.</p> + +<p>Elsie smiled in blissful anticipation of the refreshing perfume, +but as the spray fell near her she greeted it with a torrent of +cries.</p> + +<p>"Ugh, ugh! O-o-h! take it away!"</p> + +<p>Then Polly, too, puckered her face in disgust. "Why, I must have +put—"</p> + +<p>"What are you doing with that atomizer?" interrupted Miss +Price's voice. "How came kerosene oil in here? Have you been +spraying it around?"</p> + +<p>"I did n't know it was kerosene," answered Polly meekly. "I +s'posed it was the resodarizer—"</p> + +<p>"Deoderizer, child!"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, I get it twisted! It's that kind that smells so +nice."</p> + +<p>Miss Price gave a little laugh. "Well, this does n't smell +nice."</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry," mourned Polly. "I don't see how a kerosene bottle +came up there—oh, I know! Miss Lucy was putting some on her +watch, the other day, and she was called off—I remember! She +must have left it there."</p> + +<p>"But the bottle is labeled," Miss Price replied, fetching it +from the table where Polly had set it down. "Can't you read?"</p> + +<p>"If course I can!" she answered, a little indignant at the +question. "I guess I was thinking of—something else," she +ended.</p> + +<p>"David" had been on her tongue, but she kept the name back.</p> + +<p>"Don't you know that you should always have your mind on what you +do? It is a mercy that you did not get hold of anything worse."</p> + +<p>"I could n't," Polly protested. "The poisons and all such things +are up in the medicine closet, and that's always locked."</p> + +<p>"You have been allowed too much liberty," Miss Price went on. +"hereafter remember that you are not to touch a bottle of any +description. But, then," she added, half to herself, but which +came plainly to Polly's ear, "there is no need of such an order +while I am in charge. I shall see that none are left within +reach."</p> + +<p>The child's eyes flashed. This clear implication of the one she +adored set loose her temper, and she burst out passionately:—</p> + +<p>"Miss Lucy always does everything just right, and I think it's +mean of you to hint that she does n't!"</p> + +<p>Miss \Price looked steadily at Polly, the color wavering on her +cheeks; then she said, with more than her usual gentleness:—</p> + +<p>"Polly, I am sorry, but I think I shall have to punish you. You +may go and sit in that wooden chair over there, with your back to +the window. Do not stir or speak until I give you permission."</p> + +<p>Polly walked straight to the seat designated, but there was no +meekness in her obedience. She carried her head defiantly, and +her face was hot with anger. To think that "High Price" should +dare to find fault with Miss Lucy! That rankled in her loyal +little heart.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="5"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter V<br> +<br> +With the Assistance of Lone Star</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p>A strain of music floated up from the street, and the children +that were able to be on their feet rushed for the windows.</p> + +<p>"It's a band wagon!" cried Ethel.</p> + +<p>"Two!" amended Moses. "Say, Miss Price, can't Polly just come +and look at 'em?"</p> + +<p>"No," was the quiet answer, while Cornelius O'Shaughnessy made +faces at the young woman's back.</p> + +<p>But Polly was not missing as much as the children feared. At +first her mind was in too great a tumult for her to care for band +wagons. Then, as the music soothed her excited nerves and drew +her thoughts into pleasanter paths, she pictured the great wagons, +and ther performers in scarlet and gold, as she had seen them +scores of times, and she seemed to watch their progress under the +arch of elms as perfectly as if she were not in the idle of the +room with her eyes shut.</p> + +<p>Them music grew faint and fainter, and was finally lost in the +noise of the street. The children returned to their various +occupations, giving Polly furtive tokens of sympathy on their way +back. Leonora squeezed her hand; Cornelius patted her shoulder; +Moses gently pulled a curl—one of his friendly amusements; and +Brida, who was now about on crutches, stooped to kiss her cheek.</p> + +<p>"Brida, do not talk to Polly!"</p> + +<p>The sudden command startled the child almost into tripping.</p> + +<p>"I was n't talkin'!" she protested. "I was only kissin' her."</p> + +<p>"Well, come away from her—clear away," for the little girl +was not making very quick time.</p> + +<p>"I'm comin' s' fas' 's I can!" she pouted. "I can't <i>run</i> on +these old crutches—so there!"</p> + +<p>Polly almost giggled aloud at Brida's daring, but promptly +subsided into a safe look of gravity. It was pleasant to feel +sure of her friends. She was still thinking in this vein when a +rap on the half-closed door was at once followed by the frightened +face of one of the upstairs young nurses.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Polly!" she cried, at sight of her, "run quick, and catch +Dr. Dudley for David! He's out there cranking up, and I can't—"</p> + +<p>But Polly had shot past her, and was already on the stairs.</p> + +<p>The physician was starting his car, as she gained the front +entrance.</p> + +<p>"Doctor! Doctor! OH, Doctor!" she screamed, dashing down steps +and walk at a reckless speed; but he did not look round and her +voice was lost in the noise of the machine.</p> + +<p>Her feet never slackened. Straight on she flew, like a real +thistledown, her fair curls streaming on the wind, her eyes big +with a vague terror. As the Doctor sped farther and farther away +from her, she ceased calling realizing that she must reach him in +some other way.</p> + +<p>The second house below the hospital was Colonel Gresham's. The +Colonel himself was stepping into his light buggy, to give Lone +Star, his favorite trotter, a little exercise, when Polly rushed +up.</p> + +<p>"Oh, please, sir!" she panted, "will you catch Dr. Dudley?— +They want him at the hospital—and I could n't make him hear! +He's right ahead—in his auto—the dark green one! David +will die if he don't come!"</p> + +<p>For answer, Polly was whirled into the carriage, and before she +could recover her breath Lone Star was making as good time as he +had ever made in his short but famous life.</p> + +<p>"Whew! The Colonel is going some!"—"Who's that pretty little +kid with him?"—"Don't he leg it, though!" These and kindred +observations were elicited all the way down the street, men +stopping to see the well-known horse go by, and children scurrying +across his track.</p> + +<p>But the Doctor seemed bent on leading his pursuers a lengthy +chase, for no sooner had they gained on him sufficiently to set +Polly's heart dancing with hope than he suddenly increased his +speed, at once putting a greater distance between them. Then, +slowing for an instant, he vanished round a distant corner.</p> + +<p>"Zounds!" muttered the Colonel.</p> + +<p>"He turned right opposite that white birch!" cried Polly.</p> + +<p>"Sure?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; I was keeping watch."</p> + +<p>So was the Colonel; but he had not noticed the tree.</p> + +<p>Polly's assurance held enough decision to satisfy the driver, and +he took the turn she had indicated, where the glint of the weeping +white birch on the opposite side of the street had caught her +observant eye. But on the cross-road no dark green auto was in +sight.</p> + +<p>As they came to the first street on the right, however, a solitary +car met their eager eyes.</p> + +<p>Polly looked her delight, as the swept round the corner and along +the hard, clear stretch. The flicker of a smile was on the +Colonel's rugged face.</p> + +<p>"Doc-tor! Doctor Dud-ley!" called Polly.</p> + +<p>The physician turned his head.</p> + +<p>"Oh, don't stop!" she entreated, for he was slowing up, as they +came alongside.</p> + +<p>"Please go right back—quick! David's worse!"</p> + +<p>One astonished glance, and he comprehended, and obeyed. Colonel +Gresham gave him room for the turn. Then, with a graceful gesture +of farewell, and, "I thank you!" he whizzed past them and out of +sight.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I hope he'll get there in time!" sighed Polly.</p> + +<p>"I think he will," the Colonel nodded. "He looks it."</p> + +<p>"I don't want David to die; he's such a nice boy."</p> + +<p>Lone Star was taking the road easily, after his spurt of speed. +The lines lay loosely on the Colonel's knee.</p> + +<p>"Is this David some relative of yours?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"OH, no, sir! I've only known him a few weeks, since he was +knocked down by a runaway horse, and hurt so badly. He's David +Collins, and I'm Polly May. Dr. Dudley took me up to see him, +because he needed cheering up; but now he has bad turns with his +heart, and I can't go. He's a lovely boy. It was so good of you +to take me to catch the Doctor—I don't know what I should have +done if you had n't! And did n't your horse go fast! I never saw +a horse go so fast before. I think he's beautiful; don't you?"</p> + +<p>"I like him." The Colonel smiled down into Polly's eyes quite as +if they were old friends. "Suppose I take you for a little longer +drive—would your friends mind?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, thank you!" Polly began, "I'd love it!" Then she stopped, +with sudden recollection. "I guess I can't, though—I'd +forgotten all about it!—I must go back, and finish being +punished."</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham laughed outright, so Polly laughed too.</p> + +<p>"I made an awful mistake," she explained; "I sprayed some +kerosene all around, instead of de-sodarizer."</p> + +<p>The Colonel was grave for a polite moment. Then, "And you did +n't smell it?" he laughed.</p> + +<p>"Not till Elsie yelled at me to stop. I don't see shy I did +n't."</p> + +<p>"But it seems hardly fair to punish one for a mistake."</p> + +<p>"Well," confessed Polly, "that was n't all. I got mad, and I +guess I was pretty saucy to High Price. She said something about +Miss Lucy that I did n't like, and I told her what I thought—I +just had to! So she sent me to sit in a chair till she said to +get up. Then when the nurse came for me to catch Dr. Dudley, I +was so scared about David that I ran right off, without even +asking permission—I don't know what she will do to me now! +But you can't stop for anything when folks are 'most dying, can +you?"</p> + +<p>"I should say not," the Colonel replied. "I reckon she won't +treat you very badly."</p> + +<p>"I don't care what she does, if David only gets well. But, oh, +how can David's mother stand it, if he does n't! She's sick, you +know, so she could n't come to see him—he's all she's got, and +such a dear boy! He works to earn money for her when he's well, +sells papers, and everything. I guess they're rather poor; but +perhaps I ought n't to talk about that. Please don't tell anybody +I said it, 'cause I don't really know."</p> + +<p>"I shall not speak of it," promised Colonel Gresham gravely. +"But how happens it that you're at the hospital? You're not +sick, are you?"</p> + +<p>"Not a bit now. I was hurt, but Dr. Dudley cured me. I'm on the +staff—that's why I stay," Polly explained soberly.</p> + +<p>"Oh! You're that little girl, are you?"</p> + +<p>She nodded.</p> + +<p>"I heard something about it at the time. Well, Lone Star and I +will be glad to take you for a drive some other day, when you have +n't any punishment on hand." He drew up the horse at the hospital +entrance.</p> + +<p>"Oh! Is that his name?" exclaimed Polly. "What a loveluscious +one! Would he mind if I stroked his nose?" she asked, as the +Colonel lifted her down.</p> + +<p>"He would like it very much." And they went round to the horse's +head together.</p> + +<p>"Now I must go in," Polly sighed, giving the affectionate animal +a last, loving pat. "I thank you ever and ever so much, Colonel +Gresham, and I should be happy to go to ride with you again some +day. I hope I have n't hindered you. Good-bye."</p> + +<p>She skipped up the long walk to the house, the Colonel watching +her until she disappeared at a side door.</p> + +<p>Polly could not resist peeping into the Doctor's office before +going upstairs. The room was empty, and she went slowly on, +thinking of David.</p> + +<p>Miss Price was standing near the door of the convalescent ward. +She turned as Polly entered.</p> + +<p>"Where have you been staying?" she asked. "Dr Dudley came long +ago."</p> + +<p>"Yes, I know; but I was with Colonel Gresham, and I could n't get +here till he did."</p> + +<p>"Colonel Gresham! Pray, how came you with him?" Miss Price was +plainly astonished.</p> + +<p>"Why, he took me to catch the Doctor. And Lone Star got there! +Oh, did n't he go! Is n't it a love—luscious name?" Polly's +eyes shone.</p> + +<p>"Child!" sighed the nurse, "what have I told you about using +that word?"</p> + +<p>"I forgot," Polly answered meekly.</p> + +<p>"You should n't forget. I hope you did n't talk that way to +Colonel Gresham."</p> + +<p>"He would n't care," replied Polly comfortably.</p> + +<p>"He would think you had not had proper training. Now, remember, +there is no such word as loveluscious. In this case you should +have said that it was a good name or a pleasing name—though it +is rather too fanciful," she added.</p> + +<p>"I love it!" cried Polly; "but it would n't sound as if I did, +just to say it was good."</p> + +<p>Then Polly's thoughts suddenly went back to Lone Star's errand.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Miss Price!" she asked, "how is David?"</p> + +<p>"I have not heard," was the quiet reply.</p> + +<p>"Well, I'll go and finish up being punished now," Polly said, +with a tiny sigh, and she walked over to the chair which stood +where she had left it.</p> + +<p>Miss price did not appear to notice; but the children exchanged +surprised glances. Voluntarily to continue a punishment was +something with which they were unacquainted. They tried to +attract Polly's attention, but her eyes were feverishly watching +the half-open hall door. Dr. Dudley might stop when he came down +—unless—! Her heart grew sick with the possibility.</p> + +<p>At last she caught his step. Yes, he was coming there! Smilingly +he pushed the door wide. Polly smiled in response—at least, +David had not died!</p> + +<p>"Want to come downstairs?" he invited, crossing over to her.</p> + +<p>Still smiling, she shook her head, putting her finger to her lips.</p> + +<p>With a puzzled look, the Doctor turned to Miss Price.</p> + +<p>"What's happened?" he queried. "Has Polly suddenly become dumb? +Or is it a game?"</p> + +<p>"She is being punished," was the grave answer.</p> + +<p>"Oh!" he replied. "Well, when she has been punished enough, +please send her down to me."</p> + +<p>He strode away, without one word of David, to Polly's overwhelming +disappointment.</p> + +<p>In half an hour Miss Price said, "Polly, you may go now."</p> + +<p>She bounded off, with not even a backward glance, and the children +felt lonelier than before. But Polly's mind was too full of David +for her to think of the rest.</p> + +<p>To her surprise the Doctor was not in his office; but upon a book +of bright color she spied a tiny note with her name on it. +Catching it up eagerly, she read:—</p> + + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + Dear Thistledown,—<br> + <br> + Sorry to be called away, when I have invited + Company; but wait and take tea with me. I shall + Be back soon. I've been looking over this book, + And I think you will like it.<br> + <br> + + + + + + + Sincerely,<br> + <br> + + + + + + + Robert Dudley.<br> + <br> + David is better.<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + + +<p>"Oh, I'm so glad, glad, glad!" breathed Polly, clasping the note +in her small hands.</p> + +<p>Then she read it once more, and afterwards established herself in +the Doctor's easiest chair, to begin the book he had suggested. +If she like the story she would tell it to David.</p> + +<p>Polly was so far away in thought that she did not notice Dr. +Dudley's entrance, until he was inside the office. Then she flew +to him.</p> + +<p>He caught her in his arms, surveying her with a whimsical smile.</p> + +<p>"All punished, are you?" he asked.</p> + +<p>She laughed, responding with a gay affirmative.</p> + +<p>"It does n't seem to have weighed you down much," he observed, +drawing her to a seat beside him.</p> + +<p>"It was only sitting still and not talking," she explained, "and +I took two turns at it, so 't was n't bad. I told Colonel Gresham +about the kerosene, and it made him laugh. Is n't Lone Star +beautiful?"</p> + +<p>"Decidedly; but how came you with the Colonel?" queried the +Doctor.</p> + +<p>"Why, he was right out there, if front of his house, and I asked +him to catch you—there was n't any other way. I could n't +make you hear. Oh, I do wish you could have seen Lone Star go!"</p> + +<p>"I'll venture he never did a more valuable service," said the +Doctor fervently. "Perhaps I might add, or you either. If it had +not been for your ready wits things might have gone worse. I +tried some new medicine for David, and it worked well, exceedingly +well."</p> + +<p>"Is he a good deal better?"</p> + +<p>"Very comfortable. He was sleeping when I left him. Don't +worry, Thistledown!" for tears stood in Polly's eyes. "I think +he is going to pull through all right, and we'll have him down in +the other ward before you know it."</p> + +<p>Tea was served directly, and there were big, juicy blackberries, +with which Dr. Dudley piled Polly's dish high.</p> + +<p>When they returned to the office the story of the afternoon was +finished, Polly holding back nothing, even repeating her saucy +speech to the nurse.</p> + +<p>The Doctor received it with a queer little smile.</p> + +<p>"It was dreadfully impolite things when I get mad."</p> + +<p>"Most people do," he responded. "One of the worst features of +anger is that it robs us of self-control, and that is a terrible +loss, if only for a moment."</p> + +<p>Polly did not speak and after a bit of a pause the Doctor went on.</p> + +<p>"Miss Price is going through a pretty hard place just now. Word +came yesterday that her only sister, who is a missionary in +Turkey, is very sick and not expected to live."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I wish I had n't said that!" Polly broke out penitently. "I +might go up and tell her I'm sorry," she hesitated.</p> + +<p>"It would n't be a bad plan," Dr. Dudley replied.</p> + +<p>So Polly said good-night rather soberly, although carrying away +with her the gay-colored book and the happy belief that David was +going to get well.</p> + +<p>Her feet lagged, as they drew near the ward. What would Miss +Price say? Would she make it easy or hard for her to apologize? +Then the thought of the sick sister far away in Turkey, and half +forgot herself.</p> + +<p>The nurse was writing at her little table, when she looked up to +see Polly by her side.</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry I was so saucy this afternoon," came in a soft voice. +"I did n't know about your sister then. I hope she'll get +well."</p> + +<p>For a moment Miss Price did not speak, and Polly fancied she saw +tears in the black eyes.</p> + +<p>"Thank you, my dear," she replied then. "Perhaps I was too +severe. But we will be friends now, won't we?"</p> + +<p>Polly gave a serious assent, in doubt whether she should proffer a +kiss or not; but finally went away without giving the token. She +had a vague feeling that Miss Hortensia Price would not care for +kisses.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="6"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter VI<br> +<br> +Elsie's Birthday</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p>For a week Elsie Meyers had been talking about her coming +birthday, and half wishing that she could be discharged early +enough to allow its celebration at home.</p> + +<p>"Mamma always makes a cake for our birthdays," she told the +children, plaintively. "Last year mine was choc'late, and year +before that, jelly. Mamma said next time she'd have it orange, +same's she did Ida's. Now I can't have no cake or nothin', 'count +o' this old hip!" and she pouted discontentedly.</p> + +<p>"But your arm is 'most well," suggested Polly. "That's one good +thing!"</p> + +<p>"Yes," admitted Elsie.</p> + +<p>"And it's nice that you can be all around, instead of having to +lie abed," Polly went on, hunting for happy birthday accompaniments.</p> + +<p>"Bet you 't is!" smiled Elsie. "Ying' a-bed ain't much fun, +'specially when you ache anywhere."</p> + +<p>"If Miss Lucy was here, maybe she'd have a cake for you," put in +Leonora.</p> + +<p>"But she ain't," responded Cornelius unnecessarily.</p> + +<p>"She ain't," echoed Otto Kriloff, his face reflecting his +thought.</p> + +<p>"When do you s'pose she'll come back?" queried Maggie O'Donnell.</p> + +<p>NOby could answer.</p> + +<p>"Maybe she never will," said Elsie gloomily,—"anyway till we +all get gone."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Elsie!" protested Polly.</p> + +<p>"Well," was the outing retort, "if High Price stays here much +longer—"</p> + +<p>"She!" hushed Cornelius, "she's comin'!" For light steps +sounded along the corridor.</p> + +<p>The children cast furtive, half-frightened glances towards the +hall door; but it was not Miss Hortensia Price that smilingly +opened it.</p> + +<p>"Miss Lucy! Miss Lucy!" they shouted; and with a rush they were +upon her, embracing, pulling, squeezing, until she dropped into a +chair, laughing and breathless.</p> + +<p>"Have yer come to stay?" queried Maggie anxiously.</p> + +<p>"For the present," she nodded.</p> + +<p>A big, squealing, "O-o-h!" of joy rang through the ward, while +Polly silently clung to one hand, as if she would never let it go.</p> + +<p>"What's all this rumpus about?" came growlingly from the +entrance; and the children turned to see Dr. Dudley surveying +them, his eyes a-twinkle with fun.</p> + +<p>Polly giggled. The rest looked a bit disconcerted.</p> + +<p>"Accept my congratulations," he said, extending his hand to the +nurse.</p> + +<p>Polly reluctantly relinquished her hold of Muss Lucy, that the +physician's greeting might be properly responded to, while the +young lady blushed with pleasure.</p> + +<p>"I'm jealous," the Doctor went on, looking around on the little +group. "You never make such a fuss over me when I come."</p> + +<p>"Do you want us to?" ventured Cornelius.</p> + +<p>The Doctor laughed. "Well," he responded, "I'll excuse you from +giving me such an ovation every day. How is that back of yours, +Cornelius?" And he proceeded on his accustomed rounds.</p> + +<p>One by one the children sidled back to Miss Lucy.</p> + +<p>"It's my birthday to-day," announced Elsie, proceeding with her +usual information regarding the home birthday cakes.</p> + +<p>The nurse received the news with all the interest that any little +girl could desire, even going so far as to "wonder" if a tea +party would n't make a pleasant ending for the afternoon. That +set Elsie into a flutter of blissful anticipations, so that when +she overheard the Doctor telling Polly the auto got to wish she, +to, could have a drive.</p> + +<p>"Did you ever go to ride with Dr. Dudley?" queried Polly, as +Miss Lucy buttoned her into a fresh frock.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no!"</p> + +<p>"Did n't he ever invite you?" she persisted.</p> + +<p>"Of course not! Now, turn round, and let me see if you are all +right."</p> + +<p>"Well, he ought to! It is n't fair for me to have all the rides. +He's lovely to go with!"</p> + +<p> +Miss Lucy did not answer, but her cheeks were almost as pink as +Polly's dress, while she pulled out the neck ruffle and retied the +ribbon that caught up the bright curls.</p> + +<p>Polly was starting off without a word.</p> + +<p>"Good-bye, dear! I hope you will have just as good a time as you +always do." And Miss Lucy detained her long enough to leave a +kiss on the red lips.</p> + +<p>A gay little laugh was the only reply. Then Polly ran out of the +dressing-room and across the ward. The children heard her +tripping down the stairs, and hurried over to the windows to see +her go. But nobody appeared outside, and presently Polly +returned.</p> + +<p>"Put on your hat quick, Miss Lucy!" she cried gleefully. "You're +going, 'stead o' me! Dr. Dudley says he shall feel very much +honored to have your company! May I get your hat?"</p> + +<p>"Polly May!" the young woman exclaimed, in a flutter of +astonishment, "what have you been telling him?"</p> + +<p>"OH, nothing much!" laughed Polly. "He wants you—so go right +along!"</p> + +<p>"Yes, do!" the children chimed in.</p> + +<p>"Do!" echoed Elsie. "'Cause it's my birthday!"</p> + +<p>Of course Miss Lucy insisted that she could not, would not, go. +She pleaded lack of time and unsuitable dress. She summoned to +her aid every excuse at command. But in the end she did exactly +as the children wished, and they had the delight of seeing her +drive away with the Doctor, while they chorused merry good-byes to +the frantic waving of handkerchiefs.</p> + +<p>When the automobile was out of sight, Polly thoughtfully began to +paint the picture for those who had been shut off from a peep of +it.</p> + +<p>"They looked just lovely together, Miss Lucy in her pretty gray +suit, with the pink rose on her hat! She waved her hand, and Dr. +Dudley waved his!"</p> + +<p>"Wonder how long they'll be gone," put in Elsie.</p> + +<p>"I don't know—oh, say, let's clean up the dressing-room, and dust +everywhere, so Miss Lucy won't have it to do when she gets back!" +And Poly, assured of followers, skipped away for the dust-cloths.</p> + +<p>Of course Polly did most of the little tasks; that was to be +expected, since she had no lame back or twisted leg or crutches in +the way. But everybody that was on his feet had some share in the +general service, and was therefore free to appropriate a part of +the praise with which Miss Lucy showered them.</p> + +<p>Yes, she had had a charming ride, she told them, and they felt it +must be so, since they had never seen her in a gayer mood.</p> + +<p>"Run up to my room if you can slip away," she whispered to Polly. +"I shall be there changing my gown."</p> + +<p>After Miss Lucy had gone, the attention of the rest was attracted +by a horseback party on the street, and Polly darted away as she +had been bidden.</p> + +<p>"Dear child!" said Miss Lucy, taking the little face in both her +hands. "You have given me a great pleasure."</p> + +<p>"It was n't I," laughed Polly. "It was Dr. Dudley. Are n't you +glad now that you went?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," she smiled. "Because if I had n't, Elsie might not have +had this birthday present. Come, see what Doctor and I bought for +her."</p> + +<p>She opened a small package, disclosing a tiny box. In the box was +a little gold signet ring with and Old English "E" engraved upon +it.</p> + +<p>"Oh," admired Polly, "is n't that lovelicious! I'm so glad for +Elsie!"</p> + +<p>"Yes," Miss Lucy went on, "I think she will like it. We wanted +to give her something that she would keep to remember the day by, +and we could n't think of anything better. She has a poor little +home, though her mother works hard and does all she can to make +the children happy. But Elsie can't have had many bright things +in her life, so we're going to try to make her birthday as +pleasant as possible."</p> + +<p>"I should think this would please anybody, it is so beautiful!" +and Polly laid it gently back in its little case.</p> + +<p>Presently she was downstairs again, happy in the knowledge of +sharing a secret with Miss Lucy and Dr. Dudley.</p> + +<p>After dinner she read to the children from her new book of fairy +tales, and the Miss Lucy taught them some new games that they +could all play—even those who were still in bed.</p> + +<p>They were just finishing one of these, when the strains of an old +song suddenly sounded near by.</p> + +<p>"Oh, a hand-organ!" somebody shouted, and they flocked to the +windows.</p> + +<p>"And he's got a monkey!" squealed Brida.</p> + +<p>"Oh, that's 'count o' my birthday!" cried the happy Elsie. "I do +wish he'd come up here!"</p> + +<p>Her words floated down to the organ grinder, and at once he +allowed the monkey more length of cord. The little animal began +to climb the wisteria vine, and presently was doffing his tiny red +cap to the children, who shrieked with delight.</p> + +<p>"Here's a penny for him, Elsie," said Dr. Dudley, who had come +up behind them unnoticed.</p> + +<p>The little birthday girl joyfully took the bright coin, and +dropped it into the monkey's outstretched paw, receiving from him +a characteristic "thank you," which caused more glee.</p> + +<p>Again and again the little gay-coated messenger made trips up and +down the wisteria, transferring the pennies from the children's +hands to his master's pocket, until the yellow coins finally gave +out, and the Doctor was obliged to say, "No more!"</p> + +<p>Even then the man smilingly played on, and when at last he and the +monkey bade their patrons good-bye, Elsie thought that no little +girl ever had so "splendid" a birthday as she was having.</p> + +<p>The party tea was served precisely at half-past five o'clock, and +such a tea! Little biscuits scarcely bigger than silver dollars, +small tarts filled with fig marmalade, great berries that the +children agreed were super-bondonjical, tiny nut cookies, a +frosted cake decorated with nine pink candles, chocolate in pretty +cups, and—to top off the feast—ice cream in the shape of +chickens!</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy and Polly and Dr. Dudley served those little people who +could not be at the table, and nobody—not even the birthday +girl herself—enjoyed it all better than did Polly May.</p> + +<p>Polly was eagerly anticipating the time when Elsie should be +presented with the signet ring, and followed Miss Lucy's movements +with watchful eyes. At last the nurse left the ward, and +disappeared in the direction of her own room. The moment must be +close at hand!</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley told funny stories, and Polly laughed with the rest; +but her eyes were on the doorway, and her heart in a flutter of +excitement. The moments piled up, and Miss Lucy did not come +back. Polly grew anxious. Even Dr. Dudley looked at his watch, +and glanced towards the door.</p> + +<p>When, after a good quarter of an hour, the nurse returned, Polly +knew that something was wrong. Dr. Dudley knew it, too; and soon +he and Miss Lucy were talking together in low tones beyond the +reach of Polly's ears. Had something befallen the ring? What +could be the matter? The children gleefully discussing the +Doctor's last story; but Polly's thoughts were at the other end of +the room. When Miss Lucy and Dr. Dudley came back to them, +however, both faces were so bright, Polly decided that she must +have been mistaken, and looked for the ring to appear. But it was +not so much as mentioned. The Doctor bade Elsie and the others +good-bye, and Miss Lucy accompanied him into the hall.</p> + +<p>After a while the suspense became unbearable, and Polly started +for Miss Lucy's room. It was around the corner, on another +corridor, and as Polly reached the turn she heard voices. +Involuntarily she halted.</p> + +<p>"It's the strangest thing," Miss Lucy was saying. "I remember +laying it on the dresser after showing it to you, and then I was +called away, and I can't recollect putting it in the box. I know +I locked the door when I went out—I don't understand it!"</p> + +<p>"And you say nobody but Polly has been in the room since?"</p> + +<p>The voice belonged to Miss Curtis, one of Miss Lucy's closest +friends.</p> + +<p>"Unless it was entered with a skeleton key."</p> + +<p>"Well, there's only one solution to the musterd, it seems to +me," Miss Curtis replied.</p> + +<p>"I won't, I won't believe it!" Miss Lucy burst out. "Polly is +honesty itself. She would n't do such a thing any more than— +you or I would. If it were some children—but Polly!"</p> + +<p>"You might question her anyway; ask her if she noticed the ring +when she came in after those napkins."</p> + +<p>"I—can't! She'd see through it at once. Polly is bright. It +would break her heart to know we had such a thought. I believe it +got knocked off the dresser some way and will be found sooner or +later; but I wanted to give it to Elsie to-day. I'm all upset +about it!"</p> + +<p>"Well, I can't help thinking—"</p> + +<p>Polly, weak and wretched, shrank away, and went softly back +through the long corridor. At the door of the ward she met Dr. +Dudley.</p> + +<p>"I was looking for you," he said. "Don't you want to take that +ride you missed this morning? I have a call to go down to +Linwood, and it is just cool enough now to be pleasant. Better +put on your coat; your dress is thin."</p> + +<p>"Could n't you—take Elsie?" faltered Polly faintly.</p> + +<p>"Elsie? Well, Thistledown, I feel hurt! Twice in one day! Have +you sworn off from auto riding?"</p> + +<p>Usually this would have brought out a happy laugh, but now Polly +merely answered, "No," very soberly.</p> + +<p>"I should n't dare to risk a ride for Elsie until her hip is +better," the Doctor resumed. "I'll try to taker her some day, +when she is a little further along. Now, run and get you hat. +I'll wait for you."</p> + +<p>Polly never quite forgot that ride. The fresh, twilight air, +fragrant with dewy blossoms; the exhilarating motion; the Doctor's +merry speeches;—these would have been sufficient at any other +time to fill her with joy. Now she was but half conscious of them +all; the dreadful ache in her heart over-powered everything else. +She wondered if Dr. Dudley felt as Miss Lucy did. Or did he, with +Miss Curtis, suspect her to be—a thief! She longed to cry +out, "Oh, I did n't! I did n't! I did n'!" But, instead, she +silently stared out on the dusky road, and wished herself at home, +in her own little bed where she could let the tears come, and not +have to push them back.</p> + +<p>She was glad, in a vague kind of way, when the auto slowed up at +the hospital entrance, and the Doctor lifted her out. They walked +up the flagging, hand in hand, the physician as silent as she. +She would have gone directly upstairs, but he drew her into his +office.</p> + +<p>"Now, what is it, Thistledown?" he asked gently, taking her in +his arms.</p> + +<p>She hid her face on his shoulder, and began to sob.</p> + +<p>He let the tears have their way for a time, resting his cheek +lightly on her curls. Finally he spoke again.</p> + +<p>"Is it about the ring, dear?"</p> + +<p>She nodded.</p> + +<p>"What have they been saying to you?" he questioned savagely.</p> + +<p>"N-nothing to me," she replied. "I—heard—Miss Curtis— +and Miss Lucy—talking. Miss Curtis—she thinks I—oh, +dear!—she thinks I—took it! You don't think—I—took—"</p> + +<p>"<i>No!</i>" thundered the Doctor in so tremendous a voice that it +Polly had n't been in such depths of misery she would have laughed +outright.</p> + +<p>As it was, she caught his hand to her lips, and kissed it, saying, +"You scared me!"</p> + +<p>"Well, I'm sorry," he smiled; "but you must n't ask me such +questions about my Thistledown, if you don't want to hear me +roar."</p> + +<p>A wee giggle delighted his ears.</p> + +<p>"Now that's something like it!" he said. "Don't let's bother any +more about that ring. Probably we'll find it to-morrow. If we +don't, I'll buy Elsie another."</p> + +<p>A faint, uncertain rapping made the physician set Polly gently on +her feet, while he opened the door. Nobody was in sight, and he +kept on to the main entrance.</p> + +<p>A man stood outside, who deferentially removed his hat.</p> + +<p>"You b'long-a?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I belong here. I am Dr. Dudley. Whom do you wish to +see?"</p> + +<p>"I play out-a here—af'-a-noon-a," with a sweep of his hand +towards the left. "Monkee—him ba-ad-a monkee! Him take-a— +yours?" and he held out the missing ring.</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, that is ours!" the Doctor exclaimed. "We have been +trying to find it.—Polly! Polly! Come here!"</p> + +<p>Polly obeyed, though slowly, because of her tears; but when she +recognized the organ grinder curiosity hastened her steps.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley put the ring in her hand.</p> + +<p>"Why—ee!" she cried joyously. "Elsie's ring! Oh, I'm so +glad!"</p> + +<p>"Him ba'ad-a monkee!" grinned the man. "Him go up-a, up-a— +window op'n—him go in-a. I see nobodee—I pull-a so! Him +no come. I pull-a <i>so!</i>" and the man tugged hard on the imaginary +cord. "Him come. Him got-a ring-a in leetle han'—I no see! +I take-a pennees—so," and he went over a handful of invisible +coins,—"I see!" pointing to the ring. "Where get-a?" He +stared wildly around, to show how great had been his amazement. +"Ah-h!—him ba-ad-a monkee!—him get-a up-a beeg house— +beeg seeck-house—yours!" He ended with a delighted grin, +which signified his pleasure in having his surmises come true.</p> + +<p>"We thank you very much indeed," responded Dr. Dudley earnestly, +putting his hand in his pocket. "Accept this for your trouble." +And he held out a quarter.</p> + +<p>"Ah-h, no! Him ba-ad-a monkee!" He waved his hands gracefully.</p> + +<p>He went away, however, carrying the coin, and grinning his +"Good-bye."</p> + +<p>"Was n't he funny?" laughed Polly, when the door was shut. "He +called this a sick-house!"</p> + +<p>"Why not a sick-house as well as a sick-bed?" the Doctor smiled.</p> + +<p>But Polly only laughed, gazing down happily on the little ring.</p> + +<p>"I'm so glad," she breathed. "Now Miss Curtis will know!"</p> + +<p>"Miss Lucy and I knew before," was the instant reply. "Better +run upstairs and let Elsie have it while it is still her +birthday."</p> + +<p>"Will you come, too?"</p> + +<p>"No; I'll let you and Miss Lucy do the honors. There are some +people I must see, and it is getting along towards sleep time. +Good-night, Thistledown!" He stooped for a kiss, and she clung to +him for a moment.</p> + +<p>"It is so nice that you did n't think I did!" she whispered.</p> + +<p>She tripled lightly upstairs, and across the ward to Miss Lucy's +side. She slipped the ring into her hand.</p> + +<p>The nurse stared her amazement.</p> + +<p>"The monkey went in at your window, and took it!" beamed Polly. +"The man's just brought it back! He never knew it till he +counted his money! OH, he told it so funny!"</p> + +<p>"Well!" ejaculated the nurse. Then the echoed Polly's own +words, "I'm so glad!"</p> + +<p>The children were pressing near, eager to know what was exciting +Miss Lucy and Polly.</p> + +<p>"Let's see if it fits your finger, Elsie!" taking the hand of +the astonished child. "Perfectly! It is a birthday present from +Dr. Dudley and me. We were going to give it to you directly after +tea; but when I looked for it, it was gone. Polly will tell you +the rest."</p> + +<p>And Polly did, imitating the organ grinder's words and gestures, +till her listeners were shaking with laughter.</p> + +<p>Elsie was too overpowered with joy to want to go to bed at all.</p> + +<p>"When the lights are out I can't see my ring!" she cried in +sudden dismay.</p> + +<p>"But you can feel it," returned Polly.</p> + +<p>"Oh! May I keep it on my finger all night long?" she asked +incredulously.</p> + +<p>"Certainly, dear," the nurse replied.</p> + +<p>That was enough. Without another word she allowed herself to be +undressed.</p> + +<p>The ward had been dark and quiet for at least two minutes when a +voice piped out, "Miss Lucy! OH, Miss Lucy!"</p> + +<p>"What is it, Elsie?" came the quick answer.</p> + +<p>"I just happened to think—you and Dr. Dudley and Polly and +the organ man and the monkey and everybody have been living such a +splendid story for my birthday! I did n't thank you half +enough!"</p> + +<p>"You have done just right, dear. All the thanks we wanted were +in your happy face. Now pleasant dreams!"</p> + +<p>With a glad good-night, Elsie settled back contentedly on her +pillow, the ring finger pressed against her cheek. And, at last, +the hush of sleep brooded over the convalescent ward.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="7"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter VII<br> +<br> +The Little Sad Lady</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +David grew strong steadily, but not so fast that Polly was allowed +to see him as soon as they both wished. When, at last, she went +up for a brief ten minutes, she was brimful of pleasure.</p> + +<p>"I want to know about the day you ran after Dr. Dudley for me," +began David, almost at once; "the time I was so sick. The Doctor +said you had a race, and enjoyed it. I don't see how you could +enjoy running your legs off for me; but it was awfully good of +you."</p> + +<p>"Why," cried Polly, "it was n't I that ran—at least, not +much; it was Lone Star."</p> + +<p>"Lone Star?" gasped David. "Polly! Do tell me quick!"</p> + +<p>"I am telling you," she laughed. "Lone Star, Colonel Gresham's +beautiful horse, did the running—the trotting, I mean—why, +David! What's the matter?"</p> + +<p>The boy's eyes had grown big with excitement, and his cheeks were +bright.</p> + +<p>"Go on!" he breathed.</p> + +<p>"That's about all. I saw I was n't going to make the Doctor +hear, and Colonel Gresham was right out there, and I told him how +—sick you were, and asked him to catch the Doctor. I never +thought of his taking me; but before I knew it I was in the buggy, +and we were flying down the street like mad! Oh, I do wish you +could have seen Lone Star go!"</p> + +<p>"Did he know it was I?" whispered David excitedly.</p> + +<p>"Lone Star—know?" and Polly's forehead puckered. "Oh," she +brightened, "you mean the Colonel! Why, yes, of course, he did! +That is, I told him—no, I did n't tell him much, though, till +we were coming home. But what difference does it make?"</p> + +<p>"Lots!" murmured David disappointedly. "I hoped he knew—oh, +I hoped he knew! Polly!"—and the doll-blue eyes grew mournful +—"He's my Uncle David!"</p> + +<p>"Colonel Gresham—your uncle?" Now Polly's eyes widened, too.</p> + +<p>"My mother's uncle."</p> + +<p>"Oh, is n't that splendid!" beamed Polly. "I should think he'd +have told me!"</p> + +<p>David lay quite still for a moment. When he spoke again it was on +an entirely different matter, and soon the ten minutes were up.</p> + +<p>"Did you know that David is related to Colonel Gresham?" Polly +asked, as she went downstairs with Dr. Dudley.</p> + +<p>"No; how?"</p> + +<p>Polly told, adding what she had learned of the family history.</p> + +<p>The Doctor shook his head sadly.</p> + +<p>"I would n't say anything about it to the children," he +cautioned her. "Such things are better left untalked of. David +is an unusual boy."</p> + +<p>"When can he come down in our ward?" she questioned.</p> + +<p>"Very soon, if he keeps on improving as fast as he has lately."</p> + +<p>As they halted at the foot of the stairs, the Doctor looked at his +watch.</p> + +<p>"Tired?" he queried.</p> + +<p>"Not a bit," she laughed.</p> + +<p>"Then we'll keep on," he smiled, taking her hand again. "There +is a lady I'd like you to see, one of my private patients."</p> + +<p>"A young lady?"</p> + +<p>"She has white hair."</p> + +<p>"Oh, an old lady!"</p> + +<p>"She is older than you and I."</p> + +<p>"We are not old at all."</p> + +<p>"And we never will grow old, will we?" twinkled the Doctor.</p> + +<p>"We shall have to, if we live long enough."</p> + +<p>"No, we won't; we'll always keep young."</p> + +<p>Polly was laughing, as they entered a corridor in an "L" of the +main building, a part of the hospital with which she was not +familiar; but she grew grave instantly, for the Doctor paused at a +door, and she realized that here was the lady they had come to +see.</p> + +<p>The introduction over, Polly found herself facing a worn little +woman, with weary gray eyes, who looked more small and frail in +contrast with the great oaken chair in which she was pillowed. +Mrs. Jocelyn, the Doctor had called her, and Polly like the sound +of the name; but she was not yet sure that she should like the +owner of it. The lady did not smile when she said, almost as if +having a visitor bored her:—</p> + +<p>"So you are staying here at the hospital, Dr. Dudley tells me. +What do you find to do with yourself all day long?"</p> + +<p>Polly had the feeling that the little sad lady would never know +whether she returned an answer or not, for her eyes seemed to be +looking at something for away. Yet the reply was without +hesitation, and primly courteous.</p> + +<p>"I help Miss Lucy make the beds and dress the babies, and I dust +and I carry medicine and drinks of water. Then, when there is n't +anything to do to help, I read stories out loud, or tell them, and +we play quiet games." She paused, hunting for facts. "Oh and I +go auto riding with Dr. Dudley!" she broke out brightly. "That's +very nice. A And I've been to ride with Colonel Gresham!" she +smiled. "I like that, Lone Star was so splendid. Only David was +awfully sick, and I was afraid he'd die, and I kept thinking of +him. He said he would take me again some day."</p> + +<p>"My dear, I don't quite understand. David Gresham sick? What +David do you mean?" The little lady was waking up.</p> + +<p>"Oh, David Collins! He's upstairs in the ward. Colonel Gresham +took me to catch the Doctor."</p> + +<p>And Polly related the story of the chase.</p> + +<p>"Collins! Why, it was Jack Collins that Eva Gresham married— +the Colonel's niece."</p> + +<p>"Yes; David has told me that Colonel Gresham is his mother's +uncle," Polly said simply.</p> + +<p>"Well, well! So he went after the Doctor for his grand-nephew— +and did n't know it till it was all over with! What strange +things happen in this world! A pretty good joke on David +Gresham!" And the little sad lady actually smiled. Then she +sighed. "It is too bad! If they'd only make up! But they never +will. David is n't built on the make-up plan—or Eva either, I +fancy. Eva Gresham was a beautiful girl," she rambled on, +talking more to herself than to her interested listener. "She +lived with her uncle from the time her parents died, when she was +a tiny child. The Colonel idolized her."</p> + +<p>A bit of a break in the soft voice make a momentary pause in the +musing. Then it went on again. "He had nothing in the world +against Jack Collins, except that he was an artist, and poor. He +would n't have been poor, they say, if he had lived. His pictures +were beginning to sell at good prices."</p> + +<p>Suddenly she came back to Polly.</p> + +<p>"So the Colonel is going to take you driving again! Well, my +dear, you need n't be afraid he'll forget it; if he said he would, +he will. I declare, you look a good deal as Eva used to when she +was your age. She had just such golden hair and brown eyes."</p> + +<p>"David has blue eyes—the bluest I ever saw," observed Polly.</p> + +<p>"He probably favors his father," replied Mrs. Jocelyn.</p> + +<p>The Doctor's entrance put a stop to the talk, and presently Polly +said good-bye, and went upstairs.</p> + +<p>Not many days afterwards she was sent with a message to Mrs. +Jocelyn's nurse, and the little lady caught sight of her at the +door.</p> + +<p>"Can't you come in and stay a while?" she called.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," Polly hesitated, and she looked questioningly at +the nurse.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I wish you would," the young woman nodded. "I shall have +to be away for a quarter of an hour or so, and if you will stay +with Mrs. Jocelyn while I'm gone it will be an accommodation to +me."</p> + +<p>Polly seated herself smilingly.</p> + +<p>"I wonder if you are as happy as you look," the little white-haired +lady began.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'm always happy!" responded Polly; "that is, here," she +added. "I could n't help being, it's so pleasant, and everybody +is so good to me."</p> + +<p>The dull gray eyes rested sadly on her. "Well, be happy while +you can be," their owner said. "When you get to be old you'll +forget what happiness feels like."</p> + +<p>"Oh, but I shan't ever grow old!" laughed Polly. "Dr. Dudley and +I are going to stay young!"</p> + +<p>The little lady shook her head, and then changed the subject.</p> + +<p>"How is David Collins getting on?"</p> + +<p>"He is ever so much better," answered Polly; "and is n't it too +bad? He's almost strong enough to come down into our ward, and +there is n't any room for him! I've had to go and sleep in Miss +Lucy's bed, so they could use my cot."</p> + +<p>"Is the hospital so full as that?" scowled Mrs. Jocelyn. "Dear +me, how many sick people there are!"</p> + +<p>"There are three or four waiting now to come down, ahead of +David," Poly went on. "I don't know what we shall do if he can't +come at all! We've planned so many things. He said he'd tell +part of the bedtime stories—oh, it was going to be lovely!"</p> + +<p>"Perhaps there'll be a place for him pretty soon," the little +lady responded. "Dr. Dudley says that you are a story-teller, +too."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes! Some days the children keep me telling them all day +long."</p> + +<p>"Suppose you tell me one," invited the little lady.</p> + +<p>"Well," returned Polly, a bit doubtfully, and then stopped to +think over her list. "The Cherry-Pudding Story," which usually +insisted on being uppermost, would scarcely do this time, she +thought. It seemed to rollicking for this big, hushed room, with +only one sober-eyed listener. She hastily decided that none of +the cat stories were suitable, or fairy tales—"Oh!" she +suddenly dimpled, "I wonder if you would n't like the story that +David lent me. His aunt wrote it, and sent it to him. I read it +to Miss Lucy and the children. It is about little Prince Benito +and a wonderful flower."</p> + +<p>"I shall be pleased to hear it," was the polite reply.</p> + +<p>This seemed somewhat doubtful to Polly, used as she was to +enthusiastic responses.</p> + +<p>"Won't it tire you?" she hesitated.</p> + +<p>"I am always tired, little one. Perhaps the story will rest +me."</p> + +<p>"This I'll run right upstairs and get it," beamed Polly. "I +guess I can read it better than I can tell it. You don't mind +staying alone while I'm gone?"</p> + +<p>"No, indeed!" was the reply, yet she sighed after Polly had +disappeared. All the brightness of the room seemed to have +vanished.</p> + +<p>The little sad woman soon found herself watching for the light +returning footfalls, and she greeted the child with a faint smile.</p> + +<p>Polly read as she talked, naturally and with ease, and before she +had finished the first page of the story her listener had settled +herself comfortably among her pillows, a look of interest on her +usually spiritless face.</p> + +<p>It was a fanciful tale of a beautiful little prince who, by sowing +seeds of the Wonderful White Flower of Love, transformed his +father's kingdom, a country desolate from war and threatened by +famine and insurrection, into a land of prosperity and peace and +joy.</p> + +<p>At the last word, Polly, flushed with the spirit of the story, +looked up expectantly; but her listener's weary eyes seemed to be +studying the pattern of the dainty comfort across her lap. Sadly +Polly gathered together the scattered manuscript sheets, and +waited.</p> + +<p>"Thank you, dear," the little lady finally said; but the words +were spoken as with an effort.</p> + +<p>"I am afraid I have tired you," mourned Polly.</p> + +<p>"No, little one; you have only given me something to think of. +You read unusually well. Perhaps we'll have another story some +day. You don't need to stay, of you have anything else to do. I +shall want nothing until Miss Parkin comes."</p> + +<p>Polly felt that she was dismissed, yet she had promised the nurse +to remain. She hesitated a moment, and then said, "Good-bye," +and went out. She met Miss Parkin in the hall, and explained.</p> + +<p>Up in the ward, Miss Lucy was quick to see that Polly was +troubled.</p> + +<p>"How did the story go?" she asked.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," Polly sighed. "I guess she did n't like it, +'cause she seemed to be thinking about something else, and she +said I need n't stay any longer. I thought it would make her +happier," she lamented, "and all it did was to tire her!" +Polly's eyes were brimming over with tears.</p> + +<p>"Never mind, dear," said Miss Lucy comfortingly. "You did your +part, and as well as you could; that's all any of us can do. So +don't worry about it. There's Brida looking this way, as if she +were just longing to talk with you."</p> + +<p>"She shan't wait another minute," smiled, and off she skipped, +to make Brida and her followers merry.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="8"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter VIII<br> +<br> +A Warning from Aunt Jane</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +Towards noon came a telephone call for Polly to go down to Dr. +Dudley's office. Usually she sped gladly to obey such a summons; +now she was assailed by a sudden fear.</p> + +<p>"Have I made her very much worse?" was her instant inquiry, as +the Doctor opened his door?</p> + +<p>"Made whom worse?" he questioned.</p> + +<p>"Why, Mrs. Jocelyn!"</p> + +<p>"I have heard nothing from her. What is it?"</p> + +<p>Polly told of her visit and of the reading.</p> + +<p>"Is that all!" the Doctor laughed. "Don't worry about it any +more, little girl! Your stories are not the kind that harm +people. What did you read? One that I know?"</p> + +<p>"I don't think so," Polly replied. "I did n't tell you about +Prince Benito, did I?"</p> + +<p>The physician shook his head. "Suppose you tell it to me now," +he suggested.</p> + +<p>So, perched comfortably upon the arm of his chair, Polly related +the story of "The Wonderful White Flower."</p> + +<p>"I see," he mused, as Polly stopped speaking. He was silent a +moment. Then he went on.</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Jocelyn lost her only child, a beautiful little boy, when +he was eight years old. It is not unlikely that this story +awakened tender memories."</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry I made her feel bad," grieved Polly.</p> + +<p>"I would n't be if I were you."</p> + +<p>A "Why!" of wonder was rounding Polly's lips, as the physician +continued:—</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you have done Mrs. Jocelyn more good than you will ever +know. Since her husband and little boy died she has shut people +out of her life, seldom leaving her home, and rarely entertaining +a guest. From what she has said to me I judge that she has +allowed herself to brood over her sorrows till she has become +bitter and melancholy. Let's hope that your little story will +open her eyes."</p> + +<p>"Does she live all alone when she is home?" queried Polly.</p> + +<p>"Alone with her servants."</p> + +<p>"Oh, then she is n't poor! I thought she must be."</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley smilingly shook his head. "She has more money than +probably you or I will ever handle, little girl; but we'll have +better riches than gold, won't we?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; you'll make people well, and I'll try to make them happy," +returned Polly, a sweet seriousness on her usually merry face. "I +wish I could make everybody in the world happy," she added.</p> + +<p>"That is too big a job for one little Thistledown," laughed Dr. +Dudley. "There!" he exclaimed, "I nearly forgot what I called +you down for! Colonel Gresham hailed me out here, and asked if +you could go to Forest Park, this afternoon, with him and Lone +Star. I said yes. Was that all right?</p> + +<p>"Of course!" beamed Polly. "Is n't it lovely of him to ask me? +Had I better tell him that David is better?"</p> + +<p>"Not unless he inquires," the Doctor answered. "He said he would +be here at three o'clock. You can come down a little before that, +and keep a lookout for him, so as not to make him wait."</p> + +<p>Polly was on hand, in the Doctor's office, while it still lacked +fifteen minutes of the hour; but the Colonel was early, and the +waiting time was short. Very sweet she looked, as she ran down +the stone walk to the street, in her dainty new white dress with +simple ruffles edging neck and sleeves. In the delight of the +moment Polly did not forget the children up an the ward windows, +but waved them a gay good-bye, while Colonel Gresham greeted the +bobbing heads with a graceful swing of his straw hat.</p> + +<p>There was not much talk at first, for the way to the park lay +through the heart of the city; but Polly was content silently to +watch the changing throngs around them.</p> + +<p>Suddenly the Colonel drew up his horse in response to call from +the sidewalk, and presently was in a business talk with the man +who arrested him.</p> + +<p>"I shall have to leave you for a moment," he said, at length, +turning to Polly. "I'll be back shortly." And, having fastened +Lone Star, he disappeared up a stairway.</p> + +<p>Polly was enjoying this little break, when she caught sight of a +well-known face. "It's Aunt Jane!" she murmured, and was +promptly seized with a desire to hide. Breathlessly she watched +the woman in the black dress, hoping for escape from those ferret +eyes; but the horse and carriage were conspicuous, and Aunt Jane's +glance fell first on Lone Star and then passed to the little girl +upon the seat.</p> + +<p>"Polly May!" she exclaimed, and Polly smiled a somewhat +uncertain greeting.</p> + +<p>"How in the world did you come here?" twanged the remembered +voice.</p> + +<p>"Colonel Gresham is taking me to ride," was the explanation, +"and he's gone upstairs a minute."</p> + +<p>"Colonel Gresham! Goodness gracious me! Well, you are coming up +in the world! Why hain't you been round to see me?"</p> + +<p>"I'm—pretty busy," answered Polly, "I—"</p> + +<p>"Busy! Huh, you must be! Well, so'm I busy, or I should 'a' +been up after you before this. Guess you've stayed at that +hospital 'bout long enough. You might 's well be helpin' me as +gallivantin' round with Tom, Dick, and Harry."</p> + +<p>"I—thought I was going to stay all summer," faltered Polly.</p> + +<p>"I did n't make no special agreement, and now there's cannin' and +picklin' and what-not to do, I could keep you out o' mischief +easy. Where'd you get that dress?"</p> + +<p>"Miss Lucy bought it for me."</p> + +<p>"She did, hey? Well, 't ain't hurt with trimmin', is it?"</p> + +<p>The Colonel appearing at the moment, Aunt Jane made a rather +hurried departure, while she assured Polly that she would "be +round before long."</p> + +<p>"Who is that woman?" inquired Colonel Gresham.</p> + +<p>"My Aunt Jane," was the soft answer.</p> + +<p>"What's her other name?"</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Simpson. Uncle Gregory—that was her husband—was +killed when the building fell, and I was hurt."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes! I recollect. Well, is Aunt Jane good to you? Do you +love her very much?"</p> + +<p>Polly waived the first question, and proceeded to the second. +"I'm afraid I don't love her at all," she replied honestly. "Of +course, I ought to; but I don't."</p> + +<p>"It is mighty hard to love some folks," meditated the Colonel. "I +think I should rather do a season's ploughing than to attempt to +love that Aunt Jane."</p> + +<p>Polly smiled, and then returned to the question she had left +behind. "I guess she's pretty good to me," she said. "She never +whipped me."</p> + +<p>"Whipped you!" the Colonel exclaimed. "I should hope not!"</p> + +<p>"Aunts do whip sometimes," Polly nodded soberly. "Bessie +Jackson's aunt whipped her—awful! I'd run away!"</p> + +<p>"Yes," the Colonel agreed, "that would be the best thing in such +a case—though perhaps this Bessie deserved the whipping."</p> + +<p>"No, she did n't!" Polly assured him.</p> + +<p>"Well, now, I'll tell you," he went on confidentially, "if +anybody ever lays a finger on you, just you come to my house, and +I'll see that you are treated all right. Remember that now!"</p> + +<p>Polly chuckled a "thank you," and Colonel Gresham began talking +about the park, the entrance of which they were nearing.</p> + +<p>Polly tried to put Aunt Jane from her mind; but the threatened +possibilities kept thrusting themselves into the Colonel's merry +speeches, until she scarcely comprehended what he was saying. +Little by little, however, the beauties of her surroundings +overpowered all else, and Aunt Jane was for the time almost +forgotten.</p> + +<p>The wise men who had planned Forest Park had known better than to +try to improve on nature's handiwork, and rocks and ravines, +brooks and pools, wooded slopes and ferny tangles, were left +practically unchanged. Polly loved birds and flowers and all the +scents and sounds of summer fields and woods, and now, as the air +came laden with faint perfume, and a carol burst into the +stillness, she clasped her little hands together with a soft +breath of delight.</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham watcher her in furtive silence. Finally she +turned towards him.</p> + +<p>"I should think it would make sick people well to come out, here +should n't you?"</p> + +<p>"Some of them," he nodded.</p> + +<p>"I'm going to tell Mrs. Jocelyn all about it. Perhaps it would +make her happier if she's come."</p> + +<p>"What Mrs. Jocelyn is that?" asked the Colonel.</p> + +<p>"I don't know her other name. The one that's at the hospital— +she's small, and has white hair. Her husband and little boy +died."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes! Juliet Jocelyn, probably; but I did n't know that she +was sick."</p> + +<p>"She's had an operation, I think; but she's getting well now. +I've been to see her twice. Yesterday I read her a story."</p> + +<p>"I hope she appreciated it," observed the Colonel dryly.</p> + +<p>"I'm not sure," Polly replied; "she did n't say. Do you know +Mrs. Jocelyn?"</p> + +<p>"I knew her a long time ago," was the grave answer, as he turned +his horse into the road that wound up the eastern side of the +mountain.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you're going to take the Cliff Drive!" cried Polly +delightedly. "Dr. Dudley could n't go, because they won't let +autos up there."</p> + +<p>"No, for one might meet a skittish horse. I like to come up here +once in a while for the view."</p> + +<p>"I'm not going to look till we get clear up," Polly declared. +And resolutely she kept her eyes the other way.</p> + +<p>"Now!" announced Colonel Gresham.</p> + +<p>Polly turned her head—and held her breath. Then she let it +out in one long sigh of rapture.</p> + +<p>Before them lay the city, glittering in the afternoon sunshine, +while beyond, to the north and east and south, green hills formed +a living frame for the picture.</p> + +<p>"It is worth coming for," said the Colonel, at last. "There is +your home—see?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes! It looks like a castle in a forest."</p> + +<p>And then—when joy was uppermost—Aunt Jane's threat crowded +in.</p> + +<p>Polly's eyes wandered from the "castle" in the direction of the +home she dreaded.</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham noted the sudden shadow on the bright face, and +took up the reins.</p> + +<p>On the way back they stopped at a confectioner's, and the Colonel +brought out a package and laid it on Polly's lap. "There is +something to remember the drive by," he said.</p> + +<p>"Oh, thank you!" she beamed. "But I don't need anything more to +make me remember it," she added. "It has been beautiful—right +straight through!—Except Aunt Jane!" she put in honestly, under +her breath, and again her face was shadowed.</p> + +<p>"It is the best way," observed the Colonel, "to let disagreeable +things slip off our shoulders at once. If we should carry them +all, we should have a sorry load."</p> + +<p>"I guess I'll do that way," smiled Polly; "but Aunt Jane don't +slip easy!"</p> + +<p>"Shake her off," laughed the Colonel, "and she'll go!"</p> + +<p>It was a happy moment up in the ward when Polly opened her box of +candy. Such chocolates, such candied cherries and strawberries, +with tiny tongs to lift them with, the children had never seen. +They chose one apiece all round, which Miss Lucy said was enough +for that day, and Polly carried the box down to the Doctor's +office, that he might taste her sweets. It never occurred to her +that she was entitled to more than the others.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley heard all about the drive, but nothing of Aunt Jane. +Polly had decided to take the Colonel's advice—if she could, +and she recollected with relief that Aunt Jane was always more +ready to threaten than to perform.</p> + +<p>A few days afterwards Dr. Dudley early for Polly.</p> + +<p>"Anyway it is n't Aunt Jane at this time," she assured herself, +as she ran downstairs.</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Jocelyn wants to see you right away," the Doctor told her.</p> + +<p>"She does?" wondered Polly. "Do you know for what?"</p> + +<p>"I don't <i>know</i> anything," he smiled; "but I <i>guess</i> a good +deal."</p> + +<p>"Oh! What do you guess it is?" she entreated.</p> + +<p>He shook his head laughingly. "I should hate to have you discover +that I was n't a good guesser," he said. "Run along, and find +out for sure!"</p> + +<p>Polly was astonished to see how greatly the little lady had +changed. Her cheeks reflected the delicate pink of the robe she +was wearing, and her eyes were glad. Her voice was full of +eagerness.</p> + +<p>"Here comes the little sunbeam!" she smiled. "Did I interrupt +any tasks or play?" She drew Polly within the circle of her arm. +"I could n't wait another moment to thank you for reading me that +story of the little price. It brought back my own little Lloyd, +who was always planting those seeds of love wherever he went. But +since he left me I have been like that forgetful queen mother, too +wrapped up in myself to think of others. Now I am going to begin +to grow those 'wonderful white flowers.'" Her eyes shone through +tears.</p> + +<p>Polly did not know what to say; she only looked her sympathy and +appreciation.</p> + +<p>"Tell me about David," the little lady went on. "Is he well +enough to come downstairs?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, he's all ready," was the reply; "but he's go to wait for +somebody to go. Elsie was to leave to-day to to-morrow; but she +needs a little more treatment, Dr. Dudley says. So I don't know +when David can come."</p> + +<p>"I know!" responded Mrs. Jocelyn confidently. "He is coming down +to the convalescent ward—let me see, I think it may be this +afternoon, but to-morrow morning sure!"</p> + +<p>"Wh-y! how can he?" gasped Polly. "There are three ahead of +him, and there are n't any more beds!"</p> + +<p>"There will be before long," chuckled the little lady gaily. "I +have been having a bit of a talk with Dr. Dudley, and he tells me +that there is plenty of room in your ward for six or more cots— +and Polly May is going to buy them! That is, she can if she +chooses."</p> + +<p>Polly's face was one big interrogation point. "Why! I don't—" +she began, but was interrupted by a kiss right on her lips.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you dear, precious little innocent!" cried Mrs. Jocelyn. +"Read that, and see if it will tell you anything!" She took a +strip of paper from the table, and put it into Polly's hand.</p> + +<p>Across the top, in large letters, was the name of a back. The +rest was partly printed and partly written. Polly read +wonderingly:—</p> + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + Pay to the order of Polly May Three Hundred Dollars.<br> + + + + + + + Juliet P. Jocelyn.<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + +<p>"O-o-h!" and Polly's face was beautiful in its joy; "does this +mean that you're going to give me three hundred dollars to buy +some new cots with?"</p> + +<p> "It means that the money is your own to use exactly as you +please." The little lady was scarcely less excited than the +child. Giving was to her almost an untried pleasure.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I can't, I can't, I can't thank you enough! It is so +lovelicious!" Then Polly threw her arms around the happy donor in +a way that would have made her cry out with actual pain if she had +not been too delighted to realize it.</p> + +<p>"I think that will cover the cost of six or seven cots, equipped +for use," said Mrs. Jocelyn,—"that is, if you wish to spend +the money for them." The gray eyes actually twinkled.</p> + +<p>"Why, of course I do!" cried Polly. "What else could I do with +it?"</p> + +<p>"<i>You</i> could n't, you blessed child! So we'll have David +downstairs just as soon as his bed is ready, won't we?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, and how glad he'll be! Oh, how glad he'll be! And Brida +and Elsie—they've been dreadfully afraid they'd have to go +home before he came down; they want to see him so! Won't they be +pleased!"</p> + +<p>"I want to see David, too," declared the little lady, "and he +must come down with you as soon as his is strong enough—unless +I get well first," she laughed. "I feel almost well now."</p> + +<p>Polly beamed her delight, and presently was racing upstairs to +tell her good news to everybody.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley managed to get away before noon for the pleasant errand +of purchasing the beds, and Polly was overflowing with bliss. She +had her choice in everything, with the Doctor and the merchant as +advisers; and although the bill footed up to a little more than +the check, the difference was struck off, and the cots and bedding +promised to be at the hospital by two o'clock that afternoon.</p> + +<p>The convalescent ward was in such an ecstasy of excitement that +dinner went poorly; but finally it was cleared away, and the cots +moved to make room for those were coming. Everybody helped that +could walk—even those that had to hobble on crutches, for +there were many little things to do, and only a short time to do +them in. Polly was Miss Lucy's ready right hand, with always a +flock of eager assistants. When the beds were actually in place +and the men had gone away, came the delightful task of spreading +on the sheets and blankets and pretty coverlets. All was in +readiness before the hour specified, and then there was nothing to +do but wait for the coming of the new patients.</p> + +<p>At last there were footsteps on the stairs, uneven footsteps, as +of one bearing a burden—the children had started! David was +the last, and Polly had begun to be troubled, lest, after all, +something might have delayed him until another day. But there he +was, smiling to her, and waving a thin little hand in greeting. +Polly wished that Mrs. Jocelyn could be there to see it all. When +David was finally in bed, with Polly by his side, he said:—</p> + +<p>"Now, tell me all about it, please! It was such a splendid +surprise!"</p> + +<p>So Polly told just how it had happened, and talked and kept on +talking, until she suddenly discovered that David was looking a +little weary—though he insisted that he was not tired. But in +her motherly way, that was the delight of the ward, she bade him +shut his eyes and "go right to sleep," giving his hand a final +caressing pat, and then running away to let him have a chance to +follow her injunction.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="9"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter IX<br> +<br> +A Night of Song</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +David had been nearly three whole days in the convalescent ward, +taking big leaps on the road to health, when Polly was summoned to +Dr. Dudley's office. Since her meeting with Aunt Jane, the +sharp-voiced woman was ever close at hand, ready instantly to +appear in the little girl's thought and fill her with sickening +fear. Now Polly's feet lagged as she went downstairs; she dreaded +to look into the office. But Dr. Dudley was there quite alone, +smiling a blithe good-morning.</p> + +<p>"Miss Price wishes you assistance in the care of a patient," he +began.</p> + +<p>"Wh-y!" breathed Polly, "How funny—for her to want me!"</p> + +<p>"She is nursing Burton Leonard," the physician explained, "a +little six-year-old boy who was operated upon yesterday for +appendicitis. His life depends on his being quiet, but he will +not keep still. Miss Price thinks you can help out by telling him +a story or two, something that will make him forget, if possible, +how terribly thirsty he is."</p> + +<p>"Can't he have anything to drink?" questioned Polly, with a +sympathetic little frown.</p> + +<p>"Only an occasional sip of warm water—nothing cold."</p> + +<p>"I'll do my best," she promised. "I shall love to help, if I +can."</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley took her hand, and down the corridor they went, the one +with long strides, the other on dancing feet.</p> + +<p>Master Burton stared at his visitor, his big black eyes looking +bigger in a contrast with the white, drawn little face.</p> + +<p>"What you come for?" he asked fretfully.</p> + +<p>"To see you," smiled Polly.</p> + +<p>"I do' want to be seen," was the unexpected reply, and he pulled +the sheet over his head.</p> + +<p>Polly laughed, and waited.</p> + +<p>Presently the black eyes again appeared.</p> + +<p>"Why don't you lie abed?" he whined.</p> + +<p>"I did till I got well."</p> + +<p>"Did they make you lie still?" he questioned.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I had to keep very still indeed."</p> + +<p>"I don't," he whispered, glancing towards the Doctor, who was +just passing out. "When they ain't lookin' I wriggle round!"</p> + +<p>"You'd get well quicker if you'd do just as Miss Price and Dr. +Dudley tell you," advised Polly.</p> + +<p>"Huh! My mamma says nobody on earth can make me mind!" He +beckoned her nearer. "Say," he chuckled, "she put an ice bag on +me," with a wink towards the nurse, "<i>and I got out some o' the +ice!</i> It's awful good! She would n't give me a drop o' water, +only horrid old warm stuff." He showed his tongue, with a bit of +ice upon it.</p> + +<p>Polly was shocked. In the light of what the physician had told +her, she realized that the boy was ignorantly thwarting the +efforts of those who were trying to save his life. She did not +know what to say."</p> + +<p>"Do you like stories?" she finally asked.</p> + +<p>The lad looked surprised, but answered, "Some kinds. Why?"</p> + +<p>"I thought I'd tell you one, if you'd like me to."</p> + +<p>"Do you know one 'bout soldiers?"</p> + +<p>"I don't believe I do; but I know a song about a soldier."</p> + +<p>"Can you sing?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"Sing, then."</p> + +<p>"Will you lie still if I will?" asked Polly.</p> + +<p>"It's a go!"</p> + +<p>So Polly sang the old, old song of "The Drummer Boy of +Waterloo," one that her grandmother had taught her when she was a +wee girl.</p> + +<p>The boy was true to his promise, and remained motionless until the +last note ceased.</p> + +<p>"Sing it again!" he commanded. "That's a dandy!"</p> + +<p>Twice, three times more, the sad little ditty was sung; then the +sweet voice slipped softly into Holland's "Lullaby," which had +been learned from hearing it sung by Miss Lucy to restless little +patients.</p> + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + "Rockaby, lullaby, bees in the clover,<br> + + Crooning so drowsily, crying so low.<br> + + Rockaby, lullaby, dear little rover,<br> + + + Down into wonderland,<br> + + + Down to the underland,<br> + + Down into wonderland go!<br> + <br> + "Rockaby, lullaby, dew on the clover!<br> + + Dew on the eyes that will sparkle at dawn.<br> + + Rockaby, lullaby, dear little rover,<br> + + + Into the stilly world,<br> + + + Into the lily world.<br> + + Into the lily world gone!"<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + +<p>Before Polly reached the last word the song had died almost to a +breath, for Burton was "gone"—fast asleep. For a time she +watched him. His breathing was slow and steady. Finally she +slipped softly from her chair, and glanced across the room. Miss +Price nodded and smiled, and Polly tip-toed towards the door, +beckoning her to follow.</p> + +<p>Outside, in the corridor, the nurse heard of the mischievous act +of her little patient.</p> + +<p>"I did n't think he would do that!" sighed Miss Price, and she +shook her head gravely. "You are right to tell me at once," she +went on; "but I will not let Burton know that I learned of it +through you. Thank you for coming down. You may like to hear," +she added, as Polly was starting away, "that I had good news from +Turkey this morning. MY sister is better; they think she is going +to get well."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'm so glad!" beamed Polly. Then impulsively, she put up +her arms, and the next minute they were around the neck of Miss +Hortensia Price.</p> + +<p>This time she felt sure that the stately nurse did like kisses, +else why should she return them so cordially, and presently Polly +was skipping upstairs, full of gladness that her service had been +a success.</p> + +<p>That night, in the hour before bedtime, David was entertainer. +Polly had promised the children delightful stories from him, and +now he made good her word. He chose for his recital something of +his aunt's that Polly had never heard, the true account of how +some little trickey Southern boys obtained a pet goat. David had +shown his wisdom in making his first selection a story that would +please the crowd. The children laughed and laughed over it, and +begged for another. The second was as unlike the first as +possible. It was about a little princess who was carried into +captivity by some rough people, and who won the hearts of +everybody, even those of her captors, by her gentleness and love, +and who finally, through her brave unselfishness, found her way to +freedom and happiness.</p> + +<p>"I'd love to be like that Princess Yvonne," sighed Polly.</p> + +<p>It was in David's heart to say, "You are more nearly like her +than any girl I ever saw," but the words were not spoken. He +only smiled across to Miss Lucy, who sent him a smile of +comprehension in return. The two had quickly learned to +understand each other without words.</p> + +<p>"It is so hard always to love everybody," Polly went on. She was +thinking of Aunt Jane. "Do you love everybody, Miss Lucy,—every +single body?"</p> + +<p>The nurse laughed softly. "I'm afraid I sometimes find it a +difficult task," she admitted; "but even when we dislike people, +or do not exactly love them, we can wish them well, and be ready +to do them kindness whenever it is possible. And we can usually +find something lovable in everybody, if we look for it deep enough +and long enough."</p> + +<p>There was a moment's hush, and then Elsie piped out:—</p> + +<p>"David, can't you tell another story, please?"</p> + +<p>"It is pretty nearly bedtime," Miss Lucy suggested. "If we have +one, it must be short."</p> + +<p>"Oh, David, sing a song—do!" begged Polly.</p> + +<p>"Can he sing?" queried Cornelius wonderingly.</p> + +<p>"Beautifully!" answered Polly.</p> + +<p>"You don't know!" laughed David.</p> + +<p>"You never heard me."</p> + +<p>"Yes, I do know!" insisted Polly. "They would n't let you sing +solos at St. Paul's Church if you did n't sing well—so!"</p> + +<p>The children waited in astonished silence. This was an +accomplishment of David's which had not been told them.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy propped him up a little higher among his pillows, and +then he began the sweet vesper hymn, "The King of Love my +Shepherd is."</p> + +<p>The children were very quiet until they were sure that the singing +was over. Then Brida voiced everybody's thought.</p> + +<p>"Was n't that beautiful!"</p> + +<p>Presently Polly was going about her little nightly tasks humming +the melody to herself. She was quick to catch an air, and with a +bit of prompting from David she soon had the words.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you David can sing it to us together to-morrow night!" +cried Elsie, and there was a responsive chorus from all over the +ward.</p> + +<p>Polly went to sleep singing the hymn in her heart.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy's cot was nearest the door, and shortly after midnight +she waked with the sound of a rap in her ears. Hastily throwing +on a robe which was always at hand, she answered with a soft, +"What is it?"</p> + +<p>"Burton Leonard is worse," came in Dr. Dudley's low voice, "and +he wants Polly to sing to him. Get her ready as quick as you can, +please."</p> + +<p>The little girl was dreaming of Aunt Jane. She was trying to hold +a tall ladder straight up in the air, while Aunt Jane climbed to +the top, and her aunt was fretting because she did not keep it +steady. "Oh, I can't hold on a minute longer!" Polly dreamed she +was saying to herself. "But I must! I must! Because Miss Lucy +said we were to do kindness for anybody we did n't love!"</p> + +<p>Then she roused enough to know that Miss Lucy was bending over +her, whispering:</p> + +<p>"Polly dear! Can you wake up?"</p> + +<p>"Oh! David?" Polly's first thought was for her friend.</p> + +<p>"No, darling; David's all right. Dr. Dudley wants you to come +down and sing to little Burton Leonard."</p> + +<p>"Oh, of course I'll go!" Polly was wide awake now, and ready for +anything.</p> + +<p>She and Miss Lucy made speedy work of the dressing. Dr. Dudley +was outside the door waiting for her, and quietly they went +downstairs.</p> + +<p>"I'll have to sing pretty soft; shan't I?" she questioned; "or +it will disturb the other folks."</p> + +<p>"Yes," the physician agreed. "But the room is rather isolated +anyway, and the end of the wing. There's nobody near that there +'s any danger of harming."</p> + +<p>"Hullo!" came in a weak little voice, as Polly entered the +doorway. "I told 'em I'd keep still of you'd sing to me; but I +did n't b'lieve you'd come. I thought you'd be too sleepy."</p> + +<p>The boy's mother was nervously smoothing his pillow, but at a word +from the physician she retired to a seat beside the nurse.</p> + +<p>A small electric light glowed at the other end of the apartment, +and the night wind blew in at the open window, fluttering the +leaves of a magazine that lay near. Polly felt awed by the hush +of seriousness that seemed to fill the room. Although the Doctor +spoke in his usual tone, the voices of the others scarcely rose +above a whisper. She was glad when Dr. Dudley took her upon his +knee. His encircling arm gave her instant cheer.</p> + +<p>"Sing 'bout the 'Drummer Boy'!" begged the sick child, +plaintively, and there was something in his tone that gave Polly a +pang of fear. How different from his commands of the morning!</p> + +<p>Ver soft was the singing, as if in keeping with the occasion and +the hour, yet every ward was clear.</p> + +<p>>From "The Drummer Boy" Polly slipped easily into "The Star-Spangled +Banner," "America," "Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean," and "The +Battle Hymn of the Republic." Then came two or three negro melodies +and some songs she had learned at school, at the end of which Dr. +Dudley whispered to her to stop and rest.</p> + +<p>While she was singing, the sick boy had lain motionless; but now +he began to nestle, and called fretfully, "Water! Water! Do give +me some water!"</p> + +<p>The nurse fetched a glass, but as soon as he discovered that it +was warm, he would not taste it.</p> + +<p>"Sing more!" he pleaded.</p> + +<p>So again Polly sang, beginning with "My Old Kentucky Home," and +then charming the Doctor with one of his favorites, "'Way down +upon the Swanee Ribber." "Annie Laurie" came next, then "Those +Evening Bells," and other old songs which her grandmother had +taught her.</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid you're getting too tired," Dr. Dudley told her; but +she smilingly shook her head, and sang on.</p> + +<p>Once or twice the lad drowsed, and she stopped for a bit of a +rest, until his insistent, "Sing more!" roused her from a +momentary dream.</p> + +<p>The mother sat a little apart, but kept her eyes on her boy's +face, ready for instant service.</p> + +<p>Several times the physician reached over to feel his patient's +pulse, and seemed satisfied with what he found.</p> + +<p>So the night dragged by.</p> + +<p>It was early dawn when Miss Price, in answer to the repeated call, +again fetched water, and, as before, the child refused it.</p> + +<p>"Take away that nasty old hot stuff, and bring me some cold!" he +commanded, with a spurt of his usual lordliness.</p> + +<p>The nurse gently urged him to taste it; but he only pushed the +spoon away.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley was about to speak, when Polly interposed with the +first lines of "The Secret," a little song she had learned in +her last days of school. Her voice was loud enough to catch the +boy's attention, but the words were sung slowly and confidentially.</p> + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + "What do you think is in our back yard?<br> + P'rhaps you can guess, if you try real hard.<br> + It is n't a puppy, or little white mice,<br> + But it's something that's every bit as nice!<br> + Oh, no, it's not chickens or kittens at all!"<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + +<p>She broke off, her eyes smilingly meeting Burton's.</p> + +<p>"What is it?" he asked feebly.</p> + +<p>"Take some of that," she replied, pointing to the cup, and I'll +sing "the rest."</p> + +<p>He frowned at her, as she leaned back on the Doctor's shoulder. +In her attitude he saw nothing of hope, unless he complied with +her requirement. Without another protest he swallowed a few +spoonfuls of liquid.</p> + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + "Can't you think what is soft and round and small?<br> + It's two little—somethings, as white as snow!<br> + <i>Two dear baby rabbits!</i>—there, now—you know!"<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + +<p>"Sing it again!" he begged.</p> + +<p>Soon his eyelids dropped together, but as the song was ended he +opened them wide, with a silent appeal for more.</p> + +<p>So the tired little girl sang the lullaby that had put him to +sleep early the day before. This time it did not have the +hoped-for effect, and the vesper hymn which David had sung—at +the bedtime hour which now seemed so very far away—came to the +singer's mind. Softly she began the tender little song, going +through it without a break.</p> + +<p>At its close the boy lay quite still, and with a sight of relief +her bright head dropped on the pillowing shoulder.</p> + +<p>The Doctor leaned forward, and listened. The lad's breathing was +soft and regular.</p> + +<p>"Sound asleep at last! Now, Thistledown—a-h!" he gasped, +for Polly lay on his arm, a limp little heap.</p> + +<p>With great strides he carried her to the window.</p> + +<p>The nurse reached the couch as soon as he, and thrust the globule +into his hand.</p> + +<p>Crushing it in his handkerchief, he passed it before the child's +nostrils, and with a little fluttering breath the brown eyes +opened.</p> + +<p>"I guess—I—was—a little tired," Polly said brokenly.</p> + +<p>"You were faint—that's all. Don't try to talk."</p> + +<p>Miss Price brought some medicine in a glass, and Polly obediently +swallowed the draught.</p> + +<p>"Is she all right now?" whispered Mrs. Leonard, who had been +standing back, frantically clasping and unclasping her nervous +little hands.</p> + +<p>The nurse nodded. "For a minute I was afraid—she is not very +strong; but it was only a faint."</p> + +<p>"If anything had happened, I should never forgiven myself for +letting her sing so long! But did n't he go off to sleep +beautifully. Just look at him—still as a mouse!" And the two +moved nearer the bed.</p> + +<p>Polly went upstairs in Dr. Dudley's arms.</p> + +<p>"I can—walk," she murmured.</p> + +<p>"No; I want the pleasure of carrying you," was the light +response, and for answer a soft little hand stroked his own.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy met them at the door of the ward, and her face was white +with fear.</p> + +<p>"She was tired and a little faint," the Doctor explained. "I +thought I'd better bring her up."</p> + +<p>"Don't worry—Miss Lucy!" smiled Polly. "I'm—all right." +She sighed softly, as her head touched the pillow.</p> + +<p>"Precious child!" murmured the nurse, and then followed the +Doctor to the door.</p> + +<p>"Has she been singing all this time?" Reproach was in the gentle +tone.</p> + +<p>He bowed. "I know! It was too severe a strain. But she did n't +seem very tired until just at the last—and it has probably +saved the boy's life."</p> + +<p>"That is good—if it has n't hurt her," Miss Lucy added +anxiously.</p> + +<p>"I think not," he replied. "She seems to be all right now. She +will probably sleep late from exhaustion. Do you suppose you can +keep the children quiet?"</p> + +<p>"Quiet! Bless them! They won't stir, if they know it is going to +disturb Polly!"</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley laughed softly. "Don't let her get up till I come," +he charged her. "I'll be in early." And he turned away.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy undressed Polly so gently that she did not awake. Then +she sat by her side until broad daylight. The children were still +asleep around her, when her name was whispered across the ward.</p> + +<p>David was sitting up in bed, his face shadowed with fear.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter with Polly?" he questioned.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy told briefly the incident of the night, and he lay down +again, but not to sleep. If the nurse so much as stirred, David +was always looking her way.</p> + +<p>The ward was greatly excited at the news; but Miss Lucy had been +true in her predictions. Never had such noiseless toilets been +made within its walls. Everybody went about on tiptoe, and +Leonora Hewitt would not walk at all, lest the thump of her crutch +on the floor might waken Polly.</p> + +<p>The little girl was still asleep when Dr. Dudley came, but soon +afterward she opened her eyes to find him at her side. Almost her +first words were an inquiry about Burton Leonard.</p> + +<p>"He is very much better," the Doctor replied. "He wanted me to +tell you not to worry about him to-day, for he would keep still +without your singing. I did n't know there was such good stuff in +him. He has been angelic, Miss Price says, ever since he heard +that you were tired out. That seemed to touch his little heart. +He called you 'a dandy girl.' You have quite won him over."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad," smiled Polly. "I guess I can sing a little for him +to-day, if he needs me."</p> + +<p>"You won't!" Dr. Dudley replied. "You are to stay in bed, Miss +Polly May! When young ladies are out all night they must lie abed +the next day."</p> + +<p>"All day long?" she queried.</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>Polly sighed a bit of a sigh; then she smiled again.</p> + +<p>"I may talk, may n't I?" she begged.</p> + +<p>"Not many bedside receptions to-day," he answered. "I want you +to sleep all you can."</p> + +<p>With a little chuckle she shut her eyes tight. "Good-night!" she +said demurely.</p> + +<p>"That is a gentle hint for me to go," the Doctor laughed. Then +he bent for a whisper in her ear. "If you sleep enough to-day, I +think we'll have a ride to-morrow."</p> + +<p>She opened her eyes, returned a happy "thank you," and then +cuddled down on her pillow.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="10"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter X<br> +<br> +The Ward's Anniversary</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +The convalescent ward was generally a happy place, for everybody +was getting well, and getting well is pleasant business. Just now +it was at its best. The majority of the children had lived +together long enough to be loyal friends, and there were no +discordant dispositions. In fact, discords knew better than to +push in where Miss Lucy reigned. Her gentle tack had proved quite +sufficient for any disagreeable element that had yet appeared in +the ward, and lately all had been harmony. The nurse would have +told you that this was greatly due to Polly May, and Polly would +have insisted it was entirely Miss Lucy's work; but as long as +happiness was there nobody cared whence it came.</p> + +<p>David Collins was a decided acquisition; the ward agreed in that.</p> + +<p>"He can tell stories almost as well as Polly," declared Elsie +Meyer to a knot of her chosen intimates.</p> + +<p>"Not qui-te," objected loyal little Brida, glancing over her +shoulder to make sure that they were far enough away from the ears +of the boy under discussion.</p> + +<p>"I did n't say quite," returned Elsie, in a lover voice, "I said +almost. 'Course, nobody tells 'em so good as Polly—she's +'special!"</p> + +<p>"But David is a dandy fine feller!" asserted Cornelius. "He can +play ball, reg'lar baseball! A college feller on a team showed +him how!"</p> + +<p>"Wisht I could play ball," sighed Leonora Hewitt, a bit +dejectedly.</p> + +<p>"Girls don't play baseball!" laughed Cornelius.</p> + +<p>"They do some kinds anyway—I used to!" And again Leonora +sighed. It is hard to be shut out from things when you are only +ten.</p> + +<p>"I would n't care, if I were you," comforted Elsie, in a way +that showed her to be an unconscious pupil of her adored Polly. +She threw an arm around the little girl who the Doctor feared +would never walk again on two strong feet. "There's lots of +things better than playing ball."</p> + +<p>"What?" demanded Cornelius, with more curiosity than +thoughtfulness.</p> + +<p>Elsie flashed him a look that meant, "How can you?" for +Cornelius had been able to throw aside his own helps to walking. +Then she answered triumphantly, "Playing with dolls—for one +thing!"</p> + +<p>"Dolls!" echoed Cornelius, laughing "Ho, ho! Dolls!"</p> + +<p>"Well, I don't care, they are! Ain't they, Miss Lucy?"</p> + +<p>"What is it, Elsie?" smiled the nurse across from her desk. "I +was n't noticing."</p> + +<p>"Dolls—ain't dolls more fun that playing ball?"</p> + +<p>"That depends," answered Miss Lucy. "Cornelius or Moses would no +doubt enjoy a game of ball better than the prettiest doll that +ever was made; but you and Leonora and Corinne, for instance, +would be unusual little girls if you did n't like dolls best."</p> + +<p>Elsie and Cornelius faced each other with good-natured laughter.</p> + +<p>"But I hain't got any doll," lamented Leonora.</p> + +<p>"Nary a ball!" declared Cornelius, striking his reast +dramatically. "So we're even!"</p> + +<p>"My doll's 'most worn out," mourned Elsie. "Guess it will be +quite by the time I get home, with Rosie and Esther bangin' it +round."</p> + +<p>"I want my dolly! I want my dolly!" piped up little Isabel. +"Where's my dolly?"</p> + +<p>"Oh! May I get her the doll, Miss Lucy?" cried Elsie, running +over to the chest of drawers where the ward's few playthings were +kept.</p> + +<p>Isabel trotted after, her face shining with expectation.</p> + +<p>Barely waiting for the desired permission, Elsie dived down into the +lower drawer, and, after a brief search among torn picture-books +and odds and ends of broken toy, brought forth a little battered +rubber doll, which had lost most of its coloring and all of its cry. +But Baby Isabel hugged it to her heart, and at once dropped to the +floor, crooning over her new treasure.</p> + +<p>While the ward was thus discussing dolls, Mrs. Jocelyn and Polly, +downstairs, in the little lady's room, were conversing on the same +subject.</p> + +<p>It was Polly's first visit since the night she had sung to Burton +Leonard, and they had talked of that any many other things.</p> + +<p>"It is too bad for you to be shut up in a hospital all this +beautiful summer," lamented Mrs. Jocelyn. "If I were only well, +I'd carry you off home with me this very day, and we'd go driving +out in the country, and have woodsy picnics, and all sorts of +delightful things."</p> + +<p>"I went to ride yesterday with Dr. Dudley," said Polly +contentedly.</p> + +<p>"Yes, that's all right as far as it goes; but your pleasures are +too serious ones for the most part. You ought to be playing with +dolls—without a care beyond them. By the way, I never have +seen you with a doll yet."</p> + +<p>"No, I have n't any," replied Polly sadly.</p> + +<p>"But you have them up in the ward, don't you?"</p> + +<p>"There's a little old rubber doll that somebody left because it +had n't any squeak—that's all."</p> + +<p>"For pity's sake!" exclaimed the little lady. "The idea!—not +a single doll that can be called a doll! I never heard anything +like it! What do yo play with? Or don't you play at all?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes!" laughed Polly. "We play games, and Dr. Dudley has +given me two story-books, and there are some toy soldiers—but +they're 'most all broken now. Then there's a big book with +pictures pasted in it—that's nice! There was Noah's Ark; but +a little boy threw Noah and nearly all the animals out of the +window, and before we found them the rain spoiled some of them, +and the rest were lost."</p> + +<p>"I declare, it's pitiful!" sorrowed the little lady.</p> + +<p>"Oh, we have a nice time!" smiled Polly.</p> + +<p>"I believe you'd find something to enjoy on a desert, without a +soul within fifty miles!" laughed Mrs. Jocelyn.</p> + +<p>"Guess I'd be lonesome!" chuckled Polly. "But I always thought +the sand would be lovely to play in."</p> + +<p>"There, I told you so! Oh, you'd have a good time! But, child, +have n't you any doll of your own—at home, I mean?"</p> + +<p>"No, not now—I did have"—and pain crept into the sweet +little face. "Mamma gave me a pretty doll the last Christmas— +oh, I loved it so! But after I went to live with Aunt Jane I +helped her 'most all the time I was out of school, and I did n't +have much time to play with Phebe—she was named for mamma. +Phebe was mamma's name. So finally Aunt Jane said that Maude +might just as well have my doll. I felt as if I could n't give +her up, but I had to—" Polly's lip quivered, and she swallowed +hard.</p> + +<p>"Poor little girl!" Mrs. Jocelyn put out a hand and gently +stroked the bright curls. "How could anybody be so cruel!"</p> + +<p>"I would n't have cared—much, if Maude had loved Phebe; but +she did n't. She'd swing her round by one leg, and pull her hair +when she got mad, or—anything. It seemed as if I could n't +stant it!"</p> + +<p>"Bless you! I don't see how you could!" sympathized her +listener.</p> + +<p>"Why, I had to!" replied Polly simply. "But one day—I never +told anybody this, even Miss Lucy—one day Aunt Jane took the +children to a circus, and I stayed home all alone. After they'd +been gone about half an hour I went and dug as deep a hole as I +could right in the middle of the clothes-yard—the woman +upstairs was gone, too, so she could n't see me—and I wrapped +Phebe up in a clean piece of paper, after I'd kissed her and bid +her good-bye—and then I buried her! It 'most killed me to do +it; but I could n't see any other way. Do you think it was +dreadfully wicked?"</p> + +<p>Polly looked up with wet, appealing eyes, and, to her amazement, +saw that tears were running down the little lady's cheeks.</p> + +<p>"Wicked!" Mrs. Jocelyn ejaculated. "If nobody ever did anything +more wicked than that it would be a blessed sort of world! NO, +dearest; I'm glad you were brave enough to do it—as glad as +can be! But what did they say when the came home? Did n't they +miss the doll?"</p> + +<p>"Not that night; they were so excited about the circus. They +never said a word till some time the next morning; then Maude +wondered where Phebe was. I was dreadfully afraid they'd ask me +if I knew; but Maude only looked for her a little while—she +did n't love her a bit. Aunt Jane told her she was probably +kicking round somewhere, and it served her right for not taking +better of her. I guess they forgot all about her pretty soon; but +I did n't—I never shall forget Phebe!"</p> + +<p>Mrs. Jocelyn put her arm around Polly, and held her close, +murmuring sympathetic words, which were very comforting to the +bereft little mother.</p> + +<p>"How did Phebe look?" asked Mrs. Jocelyn, at last. "Do you want +to tell me?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes! She had light curly hair, just like mine, and such +pretty blue eyes and red cheeks! She was about <i>so</i> tall," +measuring a foot or more with her hands. "She had on a little +white muslin dress, with blue sprigs on it—the other dresses +Maude spoiled. She was just as sweet as she could be!" Polly's +eyes almost brimmed over, and the lady gently led her thoughts to +other things.</p> + +<p>Soon Dr. Dudley came in, and then the little girl said good-bye.</p> + +<p>On the stairs she heard her name called and looking back she saw +Miss Hortensia Price, a bunch of sweet peas in her hand.</p> + +<p>"I was bringing these to you," the nurse smiled. "How do you do, +my dear? Are you feeling quite well again?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, thank you!" cried Polly, her little nose among the +flowers. "Doctor would n't let me get up day before yesterday, +and now I'm so rested I don't feel as if I'd ever get tired."</p> + +<p>"I am very glad. I meant to come up to see you sooner, but I did +n't wish to disturb you that first day, and yesterday I was +extremely busy."</p> + +<p>"Burton is not worse, is he?" asked Polly quickly.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no! his is doing even better than we anticipated. And at +last he has decided to keep still—did Dr. Dudley tell you?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," beamed Polly, "and I'm so glad!"</p> + +<p>"We all are. He has been a hard child to manage. We have much +to thank you for—I shall never forget what you have done!"</p> + +<p>Polly was astonished at this praise that she could do nothing but +blush and murmur a few words of dissent.</p> + +<p>"Burton's mother," Miss Price went on, "wishes you would come in +some time and sing her that hymn again, the last one you sang, +'The King of Love my Shepherd is.'"</p> + +<p>"Oh," smiled Polly, "I wish she could hear David sing that! He +sings it beautifully! I never heard it till that night, so I did +n't know it very well; but if she could come up into the ward, I'm +sure David would sing it for her."</p> + +<p>Miss Price seemed to ignore David altogether, for she only said:—</p> + +<p>"Polly May, if you can learn like that, with your sweet voice,— +why, you must have a musical education! I shall speak to Dr. +Dudley about it at once. But I'm keeping you standing here, +child, and you not strong!"</p> + +<p>Polly assured her that she was not tired in the least, and thanked +her again for the flowers. Then she ran upstairs, to tell the +astonishing news to Miss Lucy and the ward, and to show her sweet +peas in proof of Miss Hortensia Price's wonderful kindness.</p> + +<p>After everybody had had a sniff of the fragrant blossoms, Polly +proposed moving a little table to the side of David's cot, and +placing the flowers on it.</p> + +<p>"Because," she argued, "if David had n't sung the hymn that +night, I could n't have and if I had n't, maybe Miss Price would +n't have given me the sweet peas; so I think they belong to David +as much as to me."</p> + +<p>The children—all but David, and his protests went for +naught—accepted Polly's reasoning as perfectly logical, and readily +helped carry out her suggestion. Miss Lucy smiled to herself, +while she allowed them to do as they pleased.</p> + +<p>"Will they keep till to-morrow, s'pose?" Questioned Elsie +anxiously.</p> + +<p>"Of course," answered Polly. "Why?"</p> + +<p>"Cause they'll help celebrate," Elsie returned.</p> + +<p>"Celebrate what?" queried Polly, wiping a drop of overrunning +water from the glass which Miss Lucy had supplied.</p> + +<p>"Why, the war's birthday! Don't you know about it?" And Elsie +looked her astonishment at having heard any new with which Polly +was not already acquainted.</p> + +<p>"I don't know what you mean," Polly replied.</p> + +<p>Then what a babel of tongues! Each wanted to be first to inform +Polly.</p> + +<p>"The ward's five years old to-morrow!"—"Miss Lucy's been tellin' +us!"—"it was started five years ago!"—"There was only three +children in it then!"—"She said we ought to celebrate!"—"A +lady give it to the hospital!"</p> + +<p>"We'll every one wear a sweet pea all day!" announced Polly.</p> + +<p>"That'll be lovely!" beamed Elsie.</p> + +<p>"They'll wilt," objected practical Moses.</p> + +<p>"Never mind!" returned Polly. "We can give 'em a drink once in a +while."</p> + +<p>So it was agreed. Meantime Miss Lucy, at her table, textbook in +hand, overheard and wished and planned. Downstairs, too, where +Mrs. Jocelyn sat talking with Dr. Dudley, more planning was going +on, and in the physician's own heart a little private scheme was +brewing. Thus the ward's birthday came nearer and more near.</p> + +<p>The sweet peas were placed on a broad sill outside the window for +the night, lest they might take it into their frail little heads +to wither before their time. They showed their appreciation of +Miss Lucy's thoughtfulness by being as sweet and bright as +possible, and early in the morning everybody in the ward wore a +decoration.</p> + +<p>About ten o'clock Dr. Dudley appeared, and Polly and Elsie hurried +to pin a posy in his buttonhole. Elsie had chosen a pink and +Polly a blue blossom, and one little girl held them in place while +the other pinned them fast, the Doctor sending telegraphic +messages over their heads to Miss Lucy.</p> + +<p>"Now, let me see," he began, after he had returned thanks for +his sweets; "think I can squeeze in seven or eight of them?" +nodding to the nurse.</p> + +<p>"They're none of them very bulky," she laughed.</p> + +<p>"Fell strong enough for an auto ride, Elsie?" he twinkled.</p> + +<p>"Me?" gasped the little girl. "You don't mean me, do you?"</p> + +<p>"If your name is Elsie Meyer, you're the one," he replied.</p> + +<p>"Oh, my! O-h, m-y!" she cried. "Polly! Polly! He's goin' to +take me to ride!" And she whirled Polly round and round in her +excited joy.</p> + +<p>"Cornelius and Moses," he counted, "and Elsie and Polly,"— +his eyes had reached the little girl with a crutch, whose pale +face was growing pink and paler by turns,—"and Leonora and +Brida," he went on; "that makes six."</p> + +<p>"Oh, me too?" squealed Brida delightedly, clutching her chair +for support in the trying moment.</p> + +<p>Leonora said nothing, only gazed at the Doctor as if she feared he +would vanish, together with her promised ride, if she did not keep +close watch.</p> + +<p>"There are only two more for whom I dare risk the bumpety-bumps," +laughed Dr. Dudley. "Corinne, I think you can bear them, and +perhaps we can wedge in Isabel."</p> + +<p>"Oh, we can hold her!" volunteered Elsie.</p> + +<p>"Sure, we can!" echoed Cornelius.</p> + +<p>"No, I want to thit in Polly'th lap," lisped the midget, edging +away from the others, and doing her best to climb to Polly's arms.</p> + +<p>Polly clasped the tiny one tight, smiling her promise, to full of +joy in her friends' happiness for any words.</p> + +<p>"I'll give you fifteen minutes to prink up in," the Doctor told +them; and away they scampered, Polly halting by David's cot long +enough to wish he "were going too."</p> + +<p>The eight were downstairs within the specified time, and they +whirled off in the big motor car, which seated them all +comfortably without crowding anybody. Very demure they were, +passing along the city streets, but in the open country their +delight found vent in shouts and squeals and jubilant laughter. +Dr. Dudley chose a route apart from the traveled highways, leading +through woods and between blossoming fields.</p> + +<p>"Could we get out and pick just a few o' those flowers?" Elsie +ventured; and presently they were all over the stone wall, Leonora +with the rest, right down among the goldenrod and asters.</p> + +<p>The went home with their arms full of beauty, too overjoyed even +to guess that they had been away nearly two whole hours, and that +it was dinner time.</p> + +<p>Leonora was first to discover it—the beautiful copy of the +Sistine Madonna, hanging opposite David's bed. Then dinner had to +wait, while they flocked over to look at Dr. Dudley's gift to the +ward.</p> + +<p>"Why, it's just like a story," cried Elsie. "Something keeps +happening all the time."</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy smiled mysteriously, which made Polly wonder if there +were more happenings in reserve for the day.</p> + +<p>Dinner was barely cleared away when a rap sent Moses to the door. +There stood one of the porters grinning behind a pyramid of white +boxes tied with gay ribbons.</p> + +<p>Moses was too astonished for anything but speechlessly to let the +man pass him. The pile was deposited beside the nurse, and Elsie +squealed out:—</p> + +<p>"They look 'xac'ly like Christmas!"</p> + +<p>"Perhaps the inside will look like Christmas, too," smiled Miss +Lucy. "Let's see what this card says:—'For the young folds of +the Convalescent Ward, in honor of the Ward's fifth birthday. From +Mrs Juliet P. Jocelyn.'</p> + +<p>"This box is addressed to Miss Polly May;" and she handed out +the one on top.</p> + +<p>Polly received it with an "Oh, thank you!" A sudden tumultuous +hope had sprung in her heart, and she gazed down at the oblong box +with a mingled anticipation and fear. What could it be but—! +Yet what if it should n't be! With trembling fingers she +hurriedly untied the blue ribbon. She hardly dared lift the +cover; but—it was!</p> + +<p>"Oh, Phebe!" she cried, with almost a sob, clasping the +beautiful doll to her heart.</p> + +<p>It was not Phebe, but so nearly like the cherished one it was not +surprising in that first ecstatic moment Polly should think it was +really her los darling. Golden curls, blue eyes, and a frock of +white muslin with blue sprigs made the resemblance very true. In +her own bliss, Polly for a minute, forgot her surroundings. Then +she became suddenly aware that Elsie was dancing about, shrieking +with delight, holding a doll the counterpart of Polly's own, +except for the color of dress and eyes.</p> + +<p>Brida's doll had blue eyes, alike the new Phebe, and Leonora's +brown, like Elsie's.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy could not untie the boxes fast enough now, the children +were so wildly excited. Every girl had a beautiful doll, and +every boy a gift that made him shout in glee or wrapped him in +speechless joy, according to his nature.</p> + +<p>"How <i>did</i> she know I'd ruther have 'em than anything in th' +biggest store you ever saw?" cried Cornelius, with a yell of +rapture, throwing off the cover of his box to see a ball, a bat, +and a catcher's mitt. "How did she did she know it?"</p> + +<p>The other big boys had similar presents and the younger lads +mechanical toys of various kinds,—Railway and Track, Steamer, +Automobile, Fire Engine, and a real little Flying Machine. +Besides these there were a number of fascinating games and a box +of stone blocks.</p> + +<p>In the late afternoon some of the nurses made a brief visit, +bringing their combined gift,—a dozen books and a shelf to +keep them on. Miss Price, who could not leave her patient, sent a +set of crayons and outline picture-books to color. And so one +delight followed another until the children were in a state of the +happiest excitement.</p> + +<p>Just before supper time Dr. Dudley came in, full of merriment and +droll stories.</p> + +<p>The tea was there on time, a regular "party tea," with a +birthday cake and five small candles. The goodies seemed ready to +be eaten; the little folks were eager to taste; still Miss Lucy +did not give the word. She and the Doctor would turn towards the +door at the slightest sound; then they would go on talking again. +Finally Polly's sharp ears heard footsteps, approaching footsteps. +Dr. Dudley listened, jumped up, and slipped outside the door, +shutting it behind him. The steps drew nearer, there were low +voices and faint laughter. Then something like a small commotion +seemed to be taking place just outside. Elsie's impatience let +loose her tongue.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Miss Lucy! What is it? Do tell us! Please do!"</p> + +<p>"In a minute there'll be no need of telling," was the smiling +answer.</p> + +<p>At the instant a light rap sent Polly and Elsie flying to the +door. Polly was ahead and threw it wide open on a pretty picture, +—little Mrs. Jocelyn seated in a wheel chair, Dr. Dudley and a +porter in the background.</p> + +<p>"Oh, o-h!" cried Polly, "how perfectly lovelicious!" And she +stepped aside to let the guest roll herself in.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy came forward with a glad greeting, while the flock of +girls and boys retreated, struck with sudden shyness.</p> + +<p>Polly laid hold of Elsie and Leonora. "come!" she whispered. +"Come, and shake hands with her!"</p> + +<p>"No, no! I can't!" gasped Leonora, terrified at the thought of +speaking to that beautiful little white-haired lady in the +exquisite gray silk.</p> + +<p>"Yes, come!" urged Polly. "She gave us our dolls, and we must +thank her!" Her hand on Leonora's gave the timid girl courage, +and she allowed herself to be led towards the wheel chair.</p> + +<p>They were all presented by name, and Mrs. Jocelyn won the girls' +hearts with kisses and kindly words, while the boys, from +Cornelius O'Shaughnessy to little John Fritz, were so charmed by +her interest in their sports that they afterwards voted her "a +dandy one"—their highest praise.</p> + +<p>The tea went off, as all party teas ought to go, to the music of +merry laughter; and when the ice cream came on, the children's +glee reached its height—it was in the form of a quaint little +girls and boys!</p> + +<p>It was nearly bedtime when the last gift arrived. The parcel was +oblong and flat and heavy.</p> + +<p>"I bet it's another picture!" ventured Moses.</p> + +<p>Polly fairly shouted when Miss Lucy folded back the wrappings. +There lay a superb photograph, handsomely framed in oak, of Lone +Star and his master. The note accompanied it:—</p> + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + To the Children's Convalescent Ward:<br> + <br> + Dear Ward:—News has just come that you are having a birthday. + I congratulate you on having lived and prospered for five long + years. As I have counted only four birthdays myself, I have + great respect for those that have attained to five.<br> + <br> + I cannot let the day pass without sending you a small token of + neighborly affection, and because the hour is late and I have + nothing better in sight I trust you will pardon my seeming + egotism in presenting my own picture.<br> + <br> + Wish bushels of joyful wishes for you future, I will sign myself<br> + <br> + + + + + Your fast friend,<br> + <br> + + + + + + + Lone Star<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="11"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XI<br> +<br> +Polly Plays the Part of Eva</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +Summer still lingered, but signs were abroad of her coming +departure. Noons were hot, and nights were chill; bird carols +were infrequent; chrysanthemums were unfurling their buds. The +vines that festooned the windows of the children's convalescent +ward sent an occasional yellow-coated messenger to the lilac +bushes below—a messenger that never came back.</p> + +<p>Inside the ward there were even greater changes. Of the old set +of summer patients only a few remained to keep Polly company. +Elsie and Brida, Corinne and Isabel, with Moses and Cornelius, had +received their discharge and had returned to their homes. Leonora +stayed for more of the treatment that was slowly lessening her +lameness and pain. David had so far recovered as to have been +appointed office boy for Dr. Dudley, a position which was, +according to David's version, "all pay and no work." But +somebody was needed to answer telephone calls during the +physician's absence, as well as to note any messages that might +arrive for him, and David's strength was now sufficient for the +service. So the arrangement was proving a very happy one, and was +especially enjoyed by Polly and Leonora.</p> + +<p>As their acquaintances drifted away from the hospital, and +strangers drifted in, these three became close friends. The girls +would join David in the office, generally bringing their dolls +with them, when David would be the one to tell or read a story, +for his aunt kept him well supplied with interesting tales. +Sometimes, especially in the early twilight hour, Dr. Dudley was +story-teller; or more often they would talk over together the +happenings of the day, the children unconsciously gathering from +the physician's rich store bits of wisdom that would abide with +them as long as memory lived.</p> + +<p>They were watching for him, one night, when the telephone bell +rang.</p> + +<p>David sprang to answer the call, and the girls heard him say:—</p> + +<p>"No, sir, he is not in.—He went out about an hour ago.—We +expect him every minute now.—Yes, sir, I will."</p> + +<p>The boy came back looking a little excited.</p> + +<p>"It was Uncle David!" he told them. "He says he is sick, and he +wants Dr. Dudley to come over."</p> + +<p>"Oh, dear," scowled Polly; "I hope ther is n't anything bad the +matter with him!"</p> + +<p>"It is the first time I ever spoke to him," said David slowly. +"But, of course, he did n't know it was I that was talking."</p> + +<p>"There's the Doctor!" cried Leonora, as a runabout stopped at +the entrance.</p> + +<p>"Shall I go tell him?" and Polly started. But the lad was already +on his way.</p> + +<p>"Let me, please!" he answered. "I want to do that much for Uncle +David."</p> + +<p>"I thought it might tire him to go fast," murmured Polly, +apologetically, as she joined Leonora at the window.</p> + +<p>"He'll get all out of breath!" worried Leonora. "Just see him +run!"</p> + +<p>"He is n't thinking of himself," Polly responded. "It's just +like him! But his heart is pretty strong now, I guess. Though +Doctor told him to be careful."</p> + +<p>David returned a little pale, and Polly made him lie down on the +couch.</p> + +<p>He did not seem inclined to talk, and the girls waited at the +window, conversing in low tones over their dolls. By and by Dr. +Dudley came up the walk, and Polly ran to open the door for him.</p> + +<p>The physician acknowledged the attention with a grave smile, and +then went directly to the telephone, calling for Miss Batterson.</p> + +<p>David sat up. The girls listened breathlessly.</p> + +<p>Presently they heard arrangements being made for the nurse to go +to the Colonel at once, and they gathered from what was said that +David's great-uncle was ill with typhoid fever, and that the +Doctor had ordered him to bed.</p> + +<p>"He has kept up too long," regretted Dr. Dudley, as he hung the +receiver on its hook. "As it is he'll have to go through a course +of fever. He is furious at the prospect, but it can't be helped.</p> + +<p>"I'm so sorry," mourned Polly.</p> + +<p>Then, seeing that there was no likelihood of a story or even talk +from the Doctor, she proposed, softly to Leonora, that they go +upstairs.</p> + +<p>"No, stay here with David, if you wish; you're not in the way. +I'm going back with Miss Batterson."</p> + +<p>So they remained, while the physician put some medicines in his +case, and gave David directions regarding a problem caller.</p> + +<p>Soon the nurse came in, suit case in hand, and the two went off +together.</p> + +<p>"I hope mother won't hear of it right away," the lad mused. "She +thinks so much of Uncle David. She'd want to go and do something +for him, you know, and she could n't, and so she'd worry."</p> + +<p>Polly recalled her recent drive through Forest Park, and could +scarcely realize that the big, strong man who had made the time so +pleasant for her was now weak and miserable from disease.</p> + +<p>David related incidents of his mother's life with her uncle when +she was a small girl, one leading to another, until, suddenly, Dr. +Dudley opened the door.</p> + +<p>"What!" he exclaimed. "My girlies not abed yet! Why, it is +nearly nine o'clock! Miss Lucy will think I have kidnapped you."</p> + +<p>They hurried away, with laughing good-nights, after being assured +by the Doctor that probably Colonel Gresham would "come out all +right."</p> + +<p>David slept downstairs now, in a tiny room adjoining the +physician's, and his last thought that night was of the +strangeness of it all—Uncle David's hurrying to catch Dr. +Dudley for him, and his being the first to notify the Doctor of +his uncle's illness, while they had not even a bowing acquaintance +with each other!</p> + +<p>For a few days there was no alarming change in colonel Gresham's +condition. Then he grew worse. He became delirious, and remained +so, recognizing no one. The anxiety felt in Dr. Dudley's office +extended upstairs to the little people of the convalescent ward, +for since the Colonel's birthday gift they had taken great +interest in the master of the famous trotter. Every morning they +were eager for the latest news from the second house away where +their friend lay so ill.</p> + +<p>The twentieth of September was hot and oppressive. Early in the +evening thunder clouds heaped the western sky, and occasional +flashes of lightning portended a shower.</p> + +<p>After the children were established for the night, Miss Lucy sat +long by the open window watching the electrical display. The +clouds rose slowly, lingering beyond the western hills with no +wind to aid their progress. Finally she partly undressed, and +throwing on a kimono settled herself comfortably upon her cot, to +await the uncertain storm, ready to shut the windows in case of +driving rain. By and by fitful breezes fluttered through the +room, the low rumbling of thunder was heard, and presently a soft +patter of drops on the leaves. The lightning grew brilliant. The +nurse dreamed and waked by turns. At length she was aroused by +steps along the corridor. They sounded like Dr. Dudley's. S She +was at the door as the physician's knuckle touched it. In +response to his voice she stepped outside, that they might not +disturb the sleepers.</p> + +<p>"I want to take Polly over to Colonel Gresham's," the Doctor +explained. "He keeps on calling for 'Eva,' and nothing will quite +him. He is on the verge of collapse."</p> + +<p>"Did n't Mrs. Collins come?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; but he did n't know her. It broke her all up. I think now +that he has gone back to the time when she was a little girl, and +possibly has confounded her with Polly. At any rate, I'm going to +try the experiment of taking Polly over. It can do no harm, and +may do some good."</p> + +<p>The hall suddenly burst into light, and there was a simultaneous +roar of thunder.</p> + +<p>"We're going to have a shower," observed the Doctor.</p> + +<p>"I should think it was already here," returned Miss Lucy. "Had +n't you better wait till it passes, before taking Polly out?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, no! Wrap her up well, and I'll carry her. It is only a few +stops; she won't get wet."</p> + +<p>Polly was a quaint little figure in the long mackintosh, and it +tripped her feet once or twice, until the doctor drew it from her +and threw it across his arm.</p> + +<p>The thunder had been lighter for some minutes; but as they halted +at the entrance before going out a tremendous crash jarred the +building.</p> + +<p>"Not afraid, Thistledown?" smiled Dr. Dudley, as he wrapped her +again in the long cloak.</p> + +<p>"I don't like it," she confessed; "but I shan't mind with you," +putting her arms around his neck.</p> + +<p>The rain was pouring as they left the piazza, and before they were +off the grounds big stones of hail were pelting their umbrella. +The Doctor hurried along, the lightning glaring about them and the +air filled with thunder.</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham's house was nearly reached, when a sudden gust +turned the umbrella, and almost at once came a blaze of light and +a terrific crash—a great oak across the street had been split +from top to root!</p> + +<p>With a gasp of terror Polly clung to the Doctor's neck, and he +sped up the walk on a quick run.</p> + +<p>"There!" he exclaimed, setting her down inside the door, "You're +safe and sound! But next time we'll take Miss Lucy's advice, and +not run any such risks."</p> + +<p>"It was awful, was n't it?" breathed Polly.</p> + +<p>"A little too close for comfort," he smiled, taking her wet coat +and spreading it over a chair.</p> + +<p>At the foot of the stairs he halted for a few instructions.</p> + +<p>"Humor the Colonel in every way possible," he told Polly. "If he +names you 'Eva," let him think he is right, and call him 'Uncle +David.'"</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid I shall make a mistake," replied Polly.</p> + +<p>"You won't," he assured her. "Just imagine you are his little +niece, doing everything to please him—that is all."</p> + +<p>Miss Batterson smiled down on Polly, as she entered the sick-room, +and spoke in a low voice to the physician.</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham had been muttering indistinctly, and now broke +into his persistent call:—</p> + +<p>"Eva! Eva! Where's Eva?"</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley gave Polly a gentle push towards the bed.</p> + +<p>"Here I am, Uncle David!" she answered, standing where the light +slanted across her yellow curls.</p> + +<p>The sick man started up, and then dropped back on his pillow.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you've come!" he cried, with a breath of relief, "Why did +you stay away—so—long?"</p> + +<p>"I did n't know you wanted me till now, Uncle David," replied +the soft voice.</p> + +<p>"Come nearer, child! Let me feel you little hand! I dreamed—I +dreamed—you were gone—forever!"</p> + +<p>"He lay quiet for a moment, her cool fingers in his hot, +trembling palm. Then he startled her bu the sudden cry:—</p> + +<p>"That water! It's dripping, dripping right on my head! Eva, put +up your hand, and catch it!"</p> + +<p>Standing beside his pillow, Polly held her hand high.</p> + +<p>"I'll catch it all, Uncle David," she assured him. "You shan't +feel another drop!"</p> + +<p>"That's a good girl! You always are a good girl, Eva! Seems as +—if—"</p> + +<p>The voice trailed off into confused mutterings, and with trembling +fingers he began picking at the sheet and working it into tiny +rolls.</p> + +<p>Very gently Polly took one of the restless hands in both her own, +and smoothed it tenderly.</p> + +<p>This had a quieting effect, and he lay still for so long that Dr. +Dudley drew Polly softly away, letting her rest on his knee, her +head against his shoulder.</p> + +<p>But in a moment the old call burst out:—</p> + +<p>"Eva! Eva! Where are you, Eva?"</p> + +<p>Her prompt assurance, "I'm right here, Uncle David!" hushed him +at once. Presently, however, he began again.</p> + +<p>"Eva! Eva! You love your old uncle, don't you, Eva? Just a— +little—bit?"</p> + +<p>"More than a little bit! I love you dearly, Uncle David!"</p> + +<p>"Don't go away any more! Promise, Eva! Promise me!"</p> + +<p>"I'll stay just as long as you want me Uncle David. Can't you go +to sleep? Remember, I'll be right here all the time!"</p> + +<p>Reassured by this, he closed his eyes, and was quiet for a while; +yet only to rouse again and repeat the same old cry.</p> + +<p>The thunder was now only an occasional rumble in the distance, and +the lightning had faded to a glimmer; but the rain still kept on, +and as the nurse raised another window the ceaseless patter of the +drops seemed to disturb the sick man, for he began his complaint +of the dripping water upon his head.</p> + +<p>Polly pacified him, as before, and once more he drowsed.</p> + +<p>The little girl slept, to, in the Doctor's arms, until, towards +morning the Colonel was resting so calmly that they returned to +the hospital.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy clasped Polly with almost a sob.</p> + +<p>"If you ever go away again in such a storm," she declared, "I +shall go, too! I saw the lightning come down—and—" her +voice broke.</p> + +<p>"And we were not harmed in the least," finished the Doctor +cheerily. "But next time I promise to act upon your higher +wisdom, and not venture among such thunderbolts. Now, hustle into +bed, both of you, and don't dare to wake up till breakfast time!"</p> + +<p>The convalescent ward slept late; the nurse and Polly strictly +obeyed orders. Nobody cared, however, and unusual gayety +prevailed at the tardy breakfast, to match the bright September +morning and the good news of Colonel Gresham. For word had come +up from Dr. Dudley that the Colonel was going to get well.</p> + +<p>Of course the children eagerly heard the story of Polly's midnight +trip in the physician's arms through the fearful storm. It had to +be told over and over again, and the more daring ones wished they +had been awake to see it all.</p> + +<p>The details of what had taken place in the sick-room Polly wisely +withheld; but the girls and boys were undoubtedly more interested +in the account of the lightning's striking the familiar big oak +tree than they would have been in the more important part of that +night's strange story.</p> + +<p>It was not many weeks afterward that Dr. Dudley brought Polly a +message.</p> + +<p>"The Colonel says he feels slighted because you don't come to see +him, and I promised to send you over."</p> + +<p>"OH, I shall have to go!" cried Polly. "I'll run right off and +change my dress."</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham was in a great chair by the window, and begged his +small guest pardon for not rising to greet her.</p> + +<p>"I'm not quite firm on my legs yet," he laughed, "and I must n't +topple over, as Miss Batterson has left me for a whole hour."</p> + +<p>"Oh, then I'll stay and wait on you!" beamed Polly. "And if you +get tired hearing me talk, you can go to sleep."</p> + +<p>But the Colonel seemed very wide awake, and after a gay chat he +began:—</p> + +<p>"Dr. Dudley has been telling me about bringing you over here in +that thunderstorm, and how you quieted me when nobody else +could."</p> + +<p>"Yes," replied Polly innocently, "You thought I was your little +niece, Eva, and—"</p> + +<p>"What?" broke in her listener, amazement in his tone.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I s'posed he 'd told you!" cried Polly, in dismay. "I ought +not to have—"</p> + +<p>"Yes, you ought!" he interrupted. "What did I say?"</p> + +<p>Polly hesitated. She was not at all sure that Dr. Dudley would +wish her to disclose the wanderings of the Colonel's mind, since +he had not done so himself. But there seemed no other way, so she +replied simply:—</p> + +<p>"Oh, you did n't say much! Only you kept calling for Eva, and so +I pretended I was she, and I called you Uncle David. And you +heard the rain, and thought it was dripping on your head, and you +wanted me to hold my hand up to catch it. That was about all."</p> + +<p>Polly cast furtive glances at the Colonel. She could make nothing +of his face, beyond that it was very grave. She wondered if he +were displeased with her.</p> + +<p>After a time he spoke.</p> + +<p>"You have done me a kindness that can never be repaid. Such +debts cannot be balanced with money. So we won't talk about pay. +But I should like to do something for you—give you a sort of +remembrance. I don't know what would make you happiest; but you +may chose, 'to the half of my kingdom'—anything but Lone Star. +I'm afraid I should hate to give up Lone Star!"</p> + +<p>Polly laughed, and the Colonel laughed too, which put the talk on +a cheery footing, and she assured him that she should n't have +chosen Lone Star anyway, because she did n't know how to take care +of a horse, and had n't any place to keep him in.</p> + +<p>Then her face grew suddenly serious, and she sat gazing at the +pattern of the rug so long that Colonel Gresham smiled to himself.</p> + +<p>"Is it too much of a problem?" he finally asked. "Can't you +think of anything within my power that would give you a little +happiness?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes!" Polly answered quickly; "but I'm afraid—" she +stopped.</p> + +<p>"Afraid of what?" he questioned.</p> + +<p>"Afraid it is too much to ask," she replied softly, lifting her +thoughtful eyes to his.</p> + +<p>"No, it is n't! Anything that will add to your happiness—"</p> + +<p>"Oh, this would make me very happy!"</p> + +<p>"Out with it then! 'To the half of my kingdom,' remember!"</p> + +<p>"And you won't be offended?"</p> + +<p>"I give you my word," he smiled.</p> + +<p>"Well," she began slowly, "I should like best of all to have you +—oh, I wish you would forgive David's mother, and love her +again! She loves you so much!"</p> + +<p>For several minutes—it seemed an hour to Polly—the marble +clock over the fireplace, with the bronze mother and child sitting +there, tick-tocked its way uninterruptedly. The little girl did +not dare to look up. Her heart beat very fast indeed. It hurt +her to breathe. Had she made Colonel Gresham so angry that he +would never speak to her again? She wondered how long it would be +before she could gain enough courage for just one glance at his +face. The he spoke.</p> + +<p>"You have given me a hard task, little Polly! It would be easier +to go through the fever again!" His voice was gentle—very +gentle, but sad.</p> + +<p>"Oh, please, please excuse me!" she exclaimed earnestly. "I ought +not to have asked it! I'll take it all back! You said what would +make me happiest—and so—and so—" She put her face down in her +hands. "I did n't mean to hurt you!" she sobbed, "I did n't! I +did n't!"</p> + +<p>"Child! Child! This will never do! It is I who am wholly to +blame! You have done nothing to excuse. I shall keep my promise +to you, if you are sure that what you have asked will give you the +greatest happiness."</p> + +<p>He waited for her answer—Polly never guessed with what selfish +longing.</p> + +<p>Her face burst into radiance.</p> + +<p>"Oh, will you!" she exclaimed. "It will make me so happy, happy, +I shan't know what to do!"</p> + +<p>Colonel Gresham was very pale, but Polly did not notice. She was +looking through rose-colored glasses.</p> + +<p>"Is David still at the hospital?" the Colonel inquired.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir; he stays in Dr. Dudley's office now, to answer the +telephone and attend to things. He's almost well."</p> + +<p>"Well enough to walk over here, think?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, sir!" Polly beamed.</p> + +<p>"Suppose you run and fetch him then. Say to him that I should +like to make his acquaintance."</p> + +<p>Polly needed no urging for such a blissful errand, and in her +excitement failed to hear the Doctor's approaching footsteps. At +the threshold she nearly ran into his arms.</p> + +<p>"Why such haste, Thistledown? Have you and Colonel Gresham +quarreled?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, no! I'm going after David. Do you care if he leaves the +office for just a little while?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly not. Tell him from me that he can come."</p> + +<p>If the Doctor felt any surprise, neither his voice nor his face +showed it.</p> + +<p>It cost Polly a deal of talk to convince David that his uncle had +actually sent for him, and then, after he had said that he would +go, he was afraid that his clothes were not just right for such a +visit.</p> + +<p>"Never mind you clothes!" cried Polly. "He'll never know what +you have on."</p> + +<p>"Well, I must brush my hair," delayed the boy, dreading the +ordeal before him.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you hair's well enough! Don't flat it down! It's so pretty +as it is now—all curly and fluffy!"</p> + +<p>So they were finally started, Polly talking so fast that David had +small chance for nervousness or fear.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley was not in sight when the children entered Colonel +Gresham's room, and Polly made a silent wild guess regarding his +speedy going away. To David's pleasure the Colonel received him +as he would have received any other lad whom Polly had brought for +a call. There was no reference to his mother or to their kinship, +and the boy began at once to feel at ease. He inquired about his +recent injury and his stay at the hospital, and then, by a chance +remark of Polly's, the subject of David's church singing was +brought up.</p> + +<p>Conversation had not begun to flag, when Polly spied the Doctor's +auto at the curb. Mrs. Collins was stepping out!</p> + +<p>David's sentence broke off square in the middle; but Colonel +Gresham did not appear to notice. Footsteps neared the door, and +the children sat breathless; yet the Colonel still talked on as +quietly as before.</p> + +<p>When the door opened, Polly saw his fingers grip the arms of his +chair. His voice faltered off into silence.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley stepped aside, and David's mother appeared on the +threshold, a little slight, fair-haired woman, her face now pink +with emotion, her eyes big and shining.</p> + +<p>The held out both hands; there was a swish of skirts an something +like a sob.</p> + +<p>Polly heard, "Eva!"—"Oh, Uncle David!" Then she slipped out +to the Doctor, and he softly shut the door.</p> + +<p>They went downstairs hand in hand, and so to the street.</p> + +<p>"We'll have a little ride," he proposed, "to let off steam. +There are n't any patients that will hurt by waiting."</p> + +<p>The car passed slowly up the pleasant street.</p> + +<p>"Thistledown," he said tenderly, "you have accomplished a +blessed work this morning."</p> + +<p>"Why," exclaimed Polly, in surprise, "I have n't done a single +thing—only go after David! It's the Colonel that's done it +all! But is n't it splendid of him? Are n't you glad for +David?"</p> + +<p>"I am glad for them all. It is what I feared never would come to +pass. Colonel Gresham is sure to like David, and it is going to +mean everything for the boy."</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="12"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XII<br> +<br> +The Kidnapping of Polly</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +"Mamma and I are going to live with Uncle David." So the boy told +Polly late that afternoon. "He says he has lost time enough, and +now we must come as soon as we can pack up."</p> + +<p>"Is n't that splendid!" beamed Polly, thinking she had never +seen David look so happy or so handsome.</p> + +<p>"Uncle David is nicer—a great deal nicer—than I dreamed +he could be. O Polly, I can't thank you enough!"</p> + +<p>"Thank me?" repeated Polly. "What for?"</p> + +<p>"Polly May!" and David gazed at her incredulously. Then he +laughed.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you little bunch of unselfishness!" he cried. "I believe +you have n't the least idea that Uncle David's making up with us +is all your doing!"</p> + +<p>"Why, David Collins, it is n't! I just told him it would make me +happy if he would—that's all!"</p> + +<p>"Just as I said!" he laughed. "O Polly, Polly! Don't you see— +no, no, I'd rather you would n't! Don't try to see!"</p> + +<p>"I could n't!" chuckled Polly. "There is n't anything to see!"</p> + +<p>"All right! It's grand anyway! Mamma looks so much prettier and +younger! Oh, you can't think how happy—"</p> + +<p>The telephone cut off his sentence, and he ran across the office.</p> + +<p>He listened a moment; then Polly heard him say, "She is right +here. If you'll wait, please, I'll ask her."</p> + +<p>David turned from the instrument. "It is Mrs. Jocelyn," he +explained. "She wants you to come up there to-morrow afternoon, +and stay all night and next day. Her cousin's little girl— +Dorothy Cannon, I think the name is—will be there, and she +wants you too."</p> + +<p>"Oh, of course I'll go!" and Polly's eyes shone: "that is, if +Miss Lucy or Dr. Dudley don't need me for anything, and I don't +suppose they will. Tell her I'll come, unless they do. Oh, and, +David,"—for he had taken up the receiver again,—"ask her +what time she wants me, please!"</p> + +<p>He gave the message, and then turned back to Polly.</p> + +<p>"She says to come as early as you can after dinner. Dear me, it +will be awfully lonesome without you!"</p> + +<p>"It will, won't it?" Polly's face sobered. "But then," she +brightened, "you'll have to be home helping your mother pack up, +shan't you?"</p> + +<p>"So I shall," he returned. "And it will be a good time for you +to go. Ever hear of this Dorothy before?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes! Mrs. Jocelyn has told me lots about her. I guess +she's nice. She's twelve."</p> + +<p>"You'll have a fine time, and I'll try to be glad you're going," +laughed David.</p> + +<p>Polly danced off to tell Miss Lucy and Leonora of her invitation, +waving a gay good-bye to David from the doorway. She had made +several visits of a day to Mrs. Jocelyn, who had left the hospital +some weeks before; but she had never remained overnight. And to +see the Dorothy Cannon of whom she had heard so many happy things! +She went upstairs on tiptoe of anticipation.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy was please, and Leonora tried to be. Polly saw through +her forced smiles, however, and proposed all the pleasant make-ups +she could think of.</p> + +<p>"You can take care of Phebe while I'm gone, and play she's twin +sister to your Juliet" (Leonora had named her doll after its +donor), "and you make take the book Burton Leonard sent me. We +have n't read more than half the stories in it yet."</p> + +<p>Leonora was beaming her thanks and her delight, when Miss Lucy +declared that she should depend on her to help entertain the ward, +and that made her look so joyful, Polly knew there would be little +lonesomeness for the lame girl.</p> + +<p>When Dr. Dudley heard that Polly was going, he promised to carry +her in his automobile, for it was a long walk to Mrs. Jocelyn's +home.</p> + +<p>"Then I shall have you to myself a little longer than the rest of +the," he twinkled.</p> + +<p>"Anybody'd think I was n't ever coming back!" laughed Polly.</p> + +<p>"Oh, don't say so!" shivered Leonora. "Talk about what you're +going to wear!"</p> + +<p>"All right!" Polly agreed. "Miss Lucy and I have got it all +planned. I shall wear my best white dress, if it is as warm as it +is today, and take my white sweater with me, so I'll have it if it +comes off cold. And I'm going to wear my beautiful locket and +chain that Mrs. Leonard gave me, and my newest blue hair ribbon, +and my best ties, and my best hat."</p> + +<p>"Dear me," mused Dr. Dudley gravely, "I did n't know I should +have to sit beside so fine a young lady as that! I wonder if I +must put on my dress suit."</p> + +<p>Polly giggled, and Leonora squealed, and they were not sobered +down when they bade the Doctor good-night.</p> + +<p>"Is n't he nice?" admired the lame girl, as they went slowly +upstairs, hand in hand.</p> + +<p>"He's the very nicest man in the whole world!" asserted Polly, +and her nodding curls emphasized her praise.</p> + +<p>Dressing came directly after dinner, and Polly had the eager +assistance of every girl in the ward that was able to be about on +two feet.</p> + +<p>Angiola Cuneo fetched the pretty black ties, and Mabel Camp the +long stockings. Frederica Schmelzer held the box containing the +hair ribbon of delicate blue while Miss Lucy brushed the fluffy +curls into smoothness. Stella Pope, greatly puffed up by the +importance of her errand, went to Miss Lucy's own room, and +brought back the dainty white frock, all spotless from the +laundry. But Leonora's was the crowning service of all. With +trembling fingers she clasped around Polly's white neck the +exquisite little gold chain, with its pendent locket, which had +been Mrs. Leonard's farewell gift when Burton left the hospital.</p> + +<p>"There," she whispered delightedly, patting Polly's shoulder, +"you look too sweet for anything!"</p> + +<p>Polly dimpled and blushed, but only said:—</p> + +<p>"I wish you were going, too!"</p> + +<p>"Oh my!" gasped Leonora; "I should n't know how to act or what +to say! I guess I'd rather stay with Miss Lucy."</p> + +<p>The nurse, gathering up some of Polly's tossed-off belongings, +smiled comfortably to herself, overhearing Leonora's words. She +rarely had so much as to hint of reproof to Polly for any breach +of courtesy; the child seemed instinctively to know what was due +to others. She could be trusted anywhere without a fear.</p> + +<p>The auto was waiting at the curb, Dr. Dudley and Polly were on +their way from office to entrance, when there came a hurried call +for the Doctor from one of his patients in a private ward.</p> + +<p>"That's too bad!" he ejaculated. "I wish she had put off her +attack an hour. Now you'll have to walk—or wait, and it is +uncertain how soon I shall be at liberty."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I don't mind walking!" smiled Polly.</p> + +<p>"Well, here's for a good time, Thistledown!" And the Doctor +kissed her on both cheeks.</p> + +<p>She watched him up the stairs, and then went out alone.</p> + +<p>"I wish I could have had the ride with him," she sighed, as she +passed the inviting auto; "but it's a lovely day for a walk," +she added. "I shall be there before I know it."</p> + +<p>She waved her hand to Miss Lucy and the children, up at the +window, who looked astonished to see her walking. Laughing at +their surprise, she flourished her sweater and the little bundle +containing her nightgown. Then shrubbery hid them from view. As +she went by Colonel Gresham's, she wondered how soon David would +be living there. Today he was at home, helping his mother, as she +had predicted he might be.</p> + +<p>A full third of the distance was passed, when, turning a corner, +she met a tall woman in a brown skirt and white waist.</p> + +<p>"Wh—", she gasped; "Aunt Jane!"</p> + +<p>The woman gave a short laugh.</p> + +<p>"You did n't expect to see mi; did you? Where you bound for, all +rigged out so fine?"</p> + +<p>"I'm going to Mrs. Jocelyn's," Polly answered faintly.</p> + +<p>"What! That rich Mrs. Jocelyn?"</p> + +<p>"I guess so."</p> + +<p>"Where does she live?"</p> + +<p>"Up on Edgewood Avenue."</p> + +<p>"Yes, that's the one," nodded the other. "You are comin' on! I +s'pose you don't go to see anybody but millionaires now'days! You +hain't been down to my house in an age."</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Jocelyn was at the hospital," Polly explained, "and she's +invited me up to stay all night, because her cousin's coming."</p> + +<p>"Well, I was on my way to see you and take you home with me. +Glad you happened along, for it will save my climbin' that hill. +Here I am slavin' myself to death, and you're kitin' off hither +and yon just to have a good time. I thought you was goin' to help +'em out at the hospital."</p> + +<p>"I do help all I can," Polly put in meekly.</p> + +<p>"Looks like it! Well, come on! I've got a pile o' work waitin' +for me at home. Much as ever I could get away anyhow."</p> + +<p>Polly stepped forward, and the two walked along together.</p> + +<p>"I thought you'd come over and see you new uncle, even if you did +n't care anything about me and your cousins."</p> + +<p>"My new uncle?" repeated Polly, looking puzzled.</p> + +<p>The woman laughed. "Did n't you hear I'd got married again?" she +asked.</p> + +<p>"Why, no!" cried Polly.</p> + +<p>"I was married three weeks ago to-day," was the proud +announcement. "He's got a good job at the Silver Plate, and I'm +takin' work from the button fact'ry; so we're gittin' on. We've +moved over on Chestnut Street—got a flat now. The kids think +it's fine."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad, Aunt Jane," Polly managed to say, just as she reached +the street which led out in the direction of Edgewood Avenue. "I +have to go this way." She stepped back to allow her aunt to pass +on.</p> + +<p>"Well, I guess not much!" and the child's arm was gripped by a +strong hand. "You're goin' home with me—that's what!"</p> + +<p>"Oh, not to-day!" cried Polly, in a sudden terror. "I can't, +Aunt Jane! I've promised to go up to Mrs. Jocelyn's!"</p> + +<p>"That don't make any difference! You can go up there some other +time—or you can stay away, just as I choose to have you! Now, +you need n't go to cryin' and makin' a fuss!" for Polly's lip was +quivering. "I guess you know me well enough to know that when I +set out to do a thing I do it, and this afternoon I said I was +goin' to fetch you home, and I expect to keep my word."</p> + +<p>A wild thought of flight swept through Polly's mind; but she at +once realized how futile would be an attempt to run away. Her arm +was still held as in a vise, and she was being led along an +unfamiliar street. Aunt Jane nodded now and then to people they +met, and could quickly call any number to her assistance. Polly +decided that this was no time for escape.</p> + +<p>"Where'd you get that locket and chain?" her captor queried.</p> + +<p>"They were a present from Mrs. Leonard."</p> + +<p>"What Mis' Leonard?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know, Her little boy was sick at the hospital, and I +sung—"</p> + +<p>"Oh, that one! Mis' Marvin Leonard it is. Well, they'd ought to +given you some money, too—they've got enough. I read in the +paper about your singin'—and faintin' away."</p> + +<p>"In the newspaper?" Polly's face showed her astonishment.</p> + +<p>"Sure! Did n't you know it? I should think some o' them doctors +or nurses might have let you see the piece. And they'd ought to +had your picture taken to go along with it."</p> + +<p>"Oh, no!" breathed Polly shrinkingly.</p> + +<p>"Huh! You're a great kid! Folks round here thought it was a +pretty smart thing. You hain't no call to be ashamed of it."</p> + +<p>The little girl attempted no reply. She felt that Aunt Jane would +not understand.</p> + +<p>Arrived on the fourth floor of the big tenement house, Polly was +at once called upon to praise the new quarters.</p> + +<p>"Ain't this more swell than that old-fashioned rent on Brewery +Street?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I guess it is," was the rather doubtful response, for +Poly, in her swift survey of the narrow, gaudy parlor, discerned +little to admire.</p> + +<p>"I s'pose it ain't much compared to the elegance of your +millionaire friends, Aunt Jane flung out, nettled at the child's +lack of approval.</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Jocelyn' furniture is very plain—if you mean her," +replied Polly gently.</p> + +<p>"Well, come in here and put your things," leading the way to a +little dim bedroom, lighted only from the apartment in front. +"Better take off that white dress, and keep it clean; I'll get +you one of Sophia's to wear till I can send for your clothes."</p> + +<p>Slowly and sadly Polly laid aside her hat, and began to unbutton +her dainty frock. Tears welled up in her eyes, at thoughts of +Miss Lucy; but with a mighty effort she winked them back.</p> + +<p>"There!—try that, and see how it fits."</p> + +<p>Aunt Jane had emerged from the depths of a dark closet, and now +tossed a limp calico print towards Polly.</p> + +<p>The child could discern soiled patches on front and sleeves, and +she revolted against the unclean garment; but silently she put it +on.</p> + +<p>"Well, that ain't so bad!" approved Aunt Jane. "Sophia's a whole +year younger than you; but she takes a bigger waist. Stand out +there—my, but it's short! Never mind! Here's a petticoat to +go with it."</p> + +<p>Polly looked down in dismay. She had thought she might perhaps +steal away to the hospital, just to let the Doctor and Miss Lucy +know where she was; but she could never brave the street in such a +skirt.</p> + +<p>"Now I'll go to sewin' buttons, and you can do up the dinner +dishes. I left 'em, thinkin' you'd be here. This is the way to +the kitchen." And presently Polly found herself in a little +stuffy box of a room, with a tableful of greasy dishes before her.</p> + +<p>"Where are the children?" she ventured.</p> + +<p>"At school, of course,—where you ought to be. Marcus and +'Melie I left at Mis' Cobbe's. That Marcus is a terror! I shall +be thankful when he goes to school. Why did n't they send you +this fall? You'll be 'way back in your books."</p> + +<p>"Dr. Dudley has made arrangements for me to go to a school near +the hospital; it does n't begin till next week."</p> + +<p>"Oh, a private school! My, if they ain't puttin' the airs on to +you!"</p> + +<p>"It's near. That's why—"</p> + +<p>"Huh! Well, 't ain't near here. I guess you can git along with +the one my kids go to."</p> + +<p>Polly did not reply. Experience had taught her to be sparing of +words with Aunt Jane. She was still toiling with the heavy +crockery, when a rush of feet in the hallway announced that school +was out.</p> + +<p>The door banged wide.</p> + +<p>"Hoh! You've got back, have you?"</p> + +<p>"Hullo, Poll!"</p> + +<p>"Say, what you wearin' my dress for?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, you've got on a gold locket! Le' me see it!" Katie's +fingers began pulling at the clasp.</p> + +<p>"Oh, don't, please!" cried Polly. "I'll unfasten it for you as +soon as I get the dishes done."</p> + +<p>"I want to see it now! Mamma, shan't Polly take off her locket, +and let me see it?"</p> + +<p>"Polly, why can't you try to please you cousin, and not be so +stingy with your things?"</p> + +<p>"My hands are soapy," she apologized, "and—"</p> + +<p>"Well, don't you know enough to wipe them?" snapped Aunt Jane. +"You seem to have grown very helpless."</p> + +<p>"Say, what are these blue stones in here?" queried Katie, +turning the locket curiously.</p> + +<p>"Turquoises," Polly answered, eyeing with fear Katie's rough +handling.</p> + +<p>"Whose picture is this?" was the next question. "Stop, you +Gregory—you'll break it! Mamma, shant' he stop pulling it +so?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, Gregory, you just wait, like a good boy, till your sister's +seen it; then you can take it."</p> + +<p>Polly trembled. Her beautiful locket and chain in Gregory's dirty +fingers!</p> + +<p>"You have n't told me who this is," complained Katie.</p> + +<p>"Burton Leonard."</p> + +<p>"It's the kid she sung to," added the mother; "the one the paper +told about."</p> + +<p>"Oh!" cried Katie. "What big eyes he's got!" And she snapped +the locket together.</p> + +<p>"Now it's my turn!" asserted Maude, snatching the pretty thing +from her sister's hand.</p> + +<p>Gregory burst into a wail.</p> + +<p>"Yer said I could have it next!" he lamented.</p> + +<p>"Let him take it!" urged the mother. But Maude only clasped the +chain about her own neck, and danced off to the looking-glass over +the sink.</p> + +<p>"Yer mean old thing!" screamed Gregory.</p> + +<p>"Come get it, Greg!" Sophia darted towards her sister.</p> + +<p>"When yer do, let me know!" jeered Maude, eluding their +outstretched hands, and putting a chair between them and herself.</p> + +<p>A short skirmish was followed by a chase around the room, until +their mother interposed.</p> + +<p>"Gracious me! What a hubbub! Maude Simpson, bring that locket to +me this minute!"</p> + +<p>"It was n't my fault at all!" whimpered Maude, taking off the +chain and dropping it in her mother's lap.</p> + +<p>"There's never no peace when you kids are in the house!" +grumbled the woman, tossing aside her work, and disappearing in +the next room.</p> + +<p>"What yer done with it?" whined Gregory, as she came back with +empty hands.</p> + +<p>"I've put it where you won't find it in a hurry," she answered +tartly. "Now hustle outdoors, the whole of you, and don't show +your heads in here again till supper time!"</p> + +<p>Polly drew a breath of relief, as the last Simpson vanished. She +had forgotten how turbulent the children were.</p> + +<p>When the dishes were out of the way began Polly's first lesson in +sewing buttons to cards, and to Aunt Jane's delight she could soon +do the work quickly and well.</p> + +<p>"You'll be quite a help," was the commendation that brought a +little solace to her sore heart. "Thank goodness, you're quieter +than my own kids!"</p> + +<p>So passed the afternoon, until came supper and the new uncle.</p> + +<p>Polly had been helping set the table, when the door opened, and a +little, thin-featured man stepped softly in.</p> + +<p>"Polly May, I'll make you acquainted with your Uncle 'Rastus, +'Rastus Bean," called Aunt Jane from the cupboard that served for +china closet and pantry.</p> + +<p>"How do you do, my dear? How do you do?" smiled Mr. Erastus +Bean, holding out his hand. "I'm very glad to see you."</p> + +<p>Polly's little fingers had barely touched the strong, wiry ones, +when Mrs. Bean's rasping voice broke in.</p> + +<p>"Come along and wash up, 'Rastus! The water's good and hot."</p> + +<p>Polly's hand was dropped, as if it had been of the temperature of +the water.</p> + +<p>"Yis, I'm comin' Jane! I'm comin' fas' 's I can!" The little +man hurried across to the sink.</p> + +<p>The children tumbled in, Gregory sprawling across the threshold +and knocking Katie against a chair.</p> + +<p>"Why don't yer ever look where you goin'?" fretted Sophia.</p> + +<p>"He's always runnin' over me!" wailed Katie.</p> + +<p>"Say, where's Marcus and 'Melie?" demanded Maude.</p> + +<p>"Over to Mis' Cobbe's, where I hope they'll stay till after +supper," answered their mother. "Her kids have been here enough, +and I guess she can 'tend to mine for one meal."</p> + +<p>"I can't go after 'em, 'cause I got to study my spellin'," +announced Sophia.</p> + +<p>"Nobody asked yer to," retorted Mrs. Bean. "They'd ought to know +enough to come home alone."</p> + +<p>The meal progressed to the accompaniment of jarring speech, and +Polly was glad when it was over.</p> + +<p>"Mamma, can we go up on the roof?" asked Katie. "The other folks +are up there, and we'll keep away from the edge."</p> + +<p>"I don't care; but, remember, the first one that goes near that +rail gets a whippin'!"</p> + +<p>The door slammed behind Maude, and Polly began to clear the table. +She was taking up her old tasks as naturally as if she had never +been free from them.</p> + +<p>"Guess I'll go up myself for a few minutes," mused Mrs. Bean. +"'Rastus, you go fetch Marcus and 'Melie home! Marcus 'u'd have +a fit if we went up on the roof without him. And, Polly, you can +put 'Melie to bed, and do up the dishes, and then come on up, if +you want to. 'Rastus!"</p> + +<p>The little man halted in the doorway.</p> + +<p>"What, Jane?"</p> + +<p>"Split up some kindlin's when you git back, and you may as well +fix the fire for mornin'—it must be about out now."</p> + +<p>The dishes were nearly washed when the children were brought in; +and the boy had departed for the roof, and his small sister was in +bed, by the time the new uncle had finished his chores.</p> + +<p>"I'll put them plates up in the cupboard," volunteered the +little man. "Set ri' down and rest."</p> + +<p>But Polly helped, until the last dish was in place and the pan +hung up on its mail. Then she dropped wearily into a chair.</p> + +<p>"That Maude ought to have wiped 'em for yer," he sympathized. +"But them kids!" He wagged his head soberly. "I'd ruther stan' +at the bench, down to the shop, all day long, than be round with +such actin' mortals. Jane, she can manage 'em if she sets out; +but 'most gen'ally she don't set out. Wisht I could do somethin' +for yer," we proffered. "Ye're all tuckered out!"</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'm just a little tired—that's all!" smiled Polly. "You +are ever so good! I wanted to go up to the hospital, and tell +them where I am—they don't know, and I'm afraid they'll worry! +But I guess I can't to-night," she ended sadly.</p> + +<p>"Why, I can run up there for yer, jus' 's well 's not," he +nodded.</p> + +<p>"Oh! Will you?" she brightened. "I'll be so glad! But won't it +be too much trouble?"</p> + +<p>"Not a bit!" he returned glibly. Then his pinched face shaded. +"If I can git back before she comes down," he hesitated, +wavering between kindness and fear. "I guess I can," he +decided, and put on this hat.</p> + +<p>"If Dr. Dudley is n't there," Polly told him, "please ask for +Miss Lucy Price. She'll do just as well. She's the nurse in our +ward."</p> + +<p>"I'll do it up all straight," he exulted, stepping briskly with +the importance of his errand. But as his hand touched the knob, +another's was before it. His wife opened the door.</p> + +<p>"Where you goin', 'Rastus Bean?" she demanded.</p> + +<p>"I—I was just goin' out for a little walk," he faltered.</p> + +<p>"A walk!" she snapped. "If you've got your chores done, you'd +better walk into bed!"</p> + +<p>Without a word he disappeared in an adjoining room, while his wife +lifted the stove cover, to see if his tasks had been faithfully +performed.</p> + +<p>Polly's forlorn hope vanished with the little man; but no tears +came until she was on her pillow, shut from all eyes. Then they +gushed forth in a flood.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="13"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XIII<br> +<br> +The Return</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +Polly was awakened early by clashing talk. The girls, whose room +she shared, were in a wrangle over her pretty, blue hair ribbon.</p> + +<p>Sophia had spied it first, and was slyly using it for her own +straight locks, when Maude had snatched it away, and a hubbub +followed.</p> + +<p>The owner of it did not interfere, but began to dress, as if she +had no interest in the cause of the quarrel.</p> + +<p>"She's more stuck-up 'n she used to be!" Polly overheard Maude +sneer, as she hurried away in response to her aunt's call.</p> + +<p>Mr. Bean wass already eating breakfast, and he greeted the little +girl pleasantly, though keeping watch of his wife, who was frying +cakes.</p> + +<p>"Here! Give these to you uncle," Polly was bidden; whereupon the +little man began such attempts at kindliness as to draw out a +contemptuous, "Huh!" from over the griddle. After that he +fastened his eyes on his plate, and ate in silence.</p> + +<p>By the time the elder children were off for school, and the +younger had departed to a neighboring tenement, Polly's early +tasks were completed, and she sat down again to the button-sewing.</p> + +<p>The little kitchen was very still, and Polly's thoughts sped back +to the big house on the hill. She wondered how long it would be +before she should see Dr. Dudley and Miss Lucy. Were they +worrying about her and trying to find her? She could only guess.</p> + +<p>"I b'lieve I'll run up and get that ginger-bread receipt of Mis' +Moore's." The nasal voice broke in rudely upon the wondering.</p> + +<p>Mrs. Bean shook the threads from her apron, and turned towards the +door.</p> + +<p>"If the kids come in and want something to eat, before I get +back," she halted to say, "there's cookies in that little stone +pot in the cupboard. Don't let 'em have but two apiece."</p> + +<p>Wild thoughts, entirely foreign to Aunt Jane's directions, were +flashing through Polly's mind.</p> + +<p>If only there were time! She could try it! She must let Dr. +Dudley and the others know!</p> + +<p>"I shan't be gone long," her aunt was saying. "You stick to your +work!"</p> + +<p>Polly waited only to hear her walk the length of the hall above, +and a door open and shut. The she cautiously stole out, and down +the stairs, three long flights. Not more than a block away she +had noticed a grocery. Groceries have telephones. She would run +down there, and call up the hospital! At the outer door she +paused an instant for one troubled look at her short skirt; but +time was precious, and quickly she was speeding down the sidewalk.</p> + +<p>"Hoh! Look at her!" jeered a big boy from across the street.</p> + +<p>She did not even glance his way.</p> + +<p>"Have you a telephone?" was her breathless inquiry of a man at +the entrance of the little shop.</p> + +<p>A jerk of his fat thumb towards the dim interior was his only +answer.</p> + +<p>"Please, may I use it?"</p> + +<p>He nodded indifferently, and then she was hurrying in the +direction indicated.</p> + +<p>The instrument was on the wall, and Polly on tiptoe could not +reach the mouthpiece. Looking around for a possible foot-stool, +she spied a small box, which might have been used before for a +similar service, and pulling it into position she found that it +brought her to the proper height. With a trembling hand she +lifted the receiver from its hook. She was familiar with the +hospital number, and gave it without hesitation.</p> + +<p>"Put in your nickel!" came distinctly to her ear.</p> + +<p>Polly started in dismay. This was a pay station!</p> + +<p>"I—have n't any!" she faltered pathetically, and the merciless +snap of the wire told her that her last hope had been cut off.</p> + +<p>She pushed the box back where she had found it, and walked slowly +out of the shop. Her feet still lagged when she turned towards +the tenement. What mattered it if Aunt Jane should return and +find her absent? What mattered anything now? Then came a sudden +daring temptation. The road was free—and she was there! Why not +keep on to the hospital? She looked down—her skirts were inches +above her knees! If only Aunt Jane had not insisted that she wear +Sophia's petticoats, to match the length of the borrowed dress! +Could she brave the crowded streets in such attire? One thought +of those she loved best brought instant decision. She could dare +anything for their sakes. With a shrinking, fast-beating heart. +She turned, and went quickly forward.</p> + +<p>She had not gone far, when ahead, whirling towards her, seemed a +familiar object. Could it be? There were other dark green +automobiles—but it was!—it was Dr. Dudley!</p> + +<p>Polly dashed into the road,—perilously near the track of the +approaching car,—wildly waving her hands. It stopped almost +at her feet, and then she was in Dr. Dudley's arms.</p> + +<p>For a moment she could only sob out her joy.</p> + +<p>"Where have you been, Polly, child? We were all so worried—"</p> + +<p>"I knew you would be! I knew it! But Aunt Jane made me come! +She held me tight and I could n't get away! Mr. Bean was going to +tell you last night; but she would n't let him—she sent him to +bed! And I tried to telephone to you just now, and I had n't any +five cents—oh, dear!"</p> + +<p>"Poor little girl!" and the Doctor's voice was very tender.</p> + +<p>His eyes passed beyond the curly head to the curb, where a knot of +men and boys regarded them curiously.</p> + +<p>"Where is the telephone, Polly?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Up there, in the little grocery store." Her hand showed the +direction.</p> + +<p>He swung her gently into the auto, stepped in beside her, and +steered slowly towards the conspicuous sign.</p> + +<p>"I'll be back in a minute," he told her and disappeared between +the shelves of fruit and vegetables.</p> + +<p>Polly's eyes followed him lovingly. Presently he was beside her +again.</p> + +<p>"I wanted to let them know that you are safe," he smiled. "Now +we will see that Aunt Jane."</p> + +<p>They went up the long stairs, Polly in advance. Her aunt heard +her, and opened the kitchen door.</p> + +<p>"Where in the world—" she began sharply, but stopped at sight +of the tall man.</p> + +<p>"I did n't know anybody was with you," she muttered; and then +recognized Dr. Dudley.</p> + +<p>"I've had quite a hunt for you," he remarked. "You have moved +recently."</p> + +<p>"Yes," she assented, "when I was married; this is nearer his +ship. I s'pose you're after Polly," she added; "but I've made +up my mind not to let her stay at the hospital any longer. I need +her at home."</p> + +<p>"You will allow her to come to us for a day," he smiled, in a +tone that admitted of no refusal.</p> + +<p>"Ain't no need of her goin' back," she fretted; "I can send for +her things."</p> + +<p>"I'll agree to bring her luggage, when she comes for good," the +Doctor returned pleasantly' "but we want her for another day or +two, at the least. Polly, run and get ready! I shall be due at +the hospital before long."</p> + +<p>In the little dim bedroom the eager fingers made quick work with +the buttons. This was what Polly had not dared hope for, a day or +two more with those she loved! Presently she was back in her +pretty dress and shoes, and was fastening on her hat before the +little cracked mirror. OH, her locket! She had come near +forgetting it.</p> + +<p>"Please, Aunt Jane, can I have my locket and chain?" she asked, +facing the somewhat disturbed woman.</p> + +<p>"There's not call for you to wear it today," was the sullen +reply.</p> + +<p>"Oh, but I'd like it, please, if you don't mind!" Polly +insisted, gaining courage from Dr. Dudley's presence.</p> + +<p>With a toss of her head, Mrs. Bean stalked into the next room. +The moments passed. Still she did not return. When she did +appear, she looked actually troubled.</p> + +<p>"That Gregory must have got hold of it, and gone and hid it away, +or something!" she worried. "I've hunted high and low, but 't +ain't anywhere! Now you need n't go to bein' scared, Polly!" for +the little girl's face plainly showed her distress. "I guess you +can stand it if you don't have on any <i>geegaws</i> to-day! I'll get +it fast enough when that kid comes home from school. But, oh, +he's a terror, Gregory is!"</p> + +<p>They went downstairs, Polly clinging to the Doctor's hand, as if +she feared that even now something might separate her from him. +In the auto, however, she settled back restfully in her seat. It +was so unspeakably good to feel a loving protector close beside.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley made quick time on the return trip to the hospital, and +David was waiting for them by the stepping-stone.</p> + +<p>"Hullo!" cried Polly blithely.</p> + +<p>"Hullo!" he responded; adding, "Oh! What made you give us such a +scare?"</p> + +<p>"I could n't help it; truly I could n't!" she replied.</p> + +<p>"Well, I'm glad you're back again!" David declared fervently, +insisting on carrying her bundle and her little white sweater.</p> + +<p>"Better run up to the ward, and let them have a sight of you," +the Doctor advised. "Did you tell your uncle?" turning to the +lad.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir. And I called up Mrs. Jocelyn, too; but she said she +had just heard from you."</p> + +<p>Polly's eyes grew wide and grave. Had her friends all been +worrying like this?</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley glanced at his watch. "I shall be busy until noon," +he said; "but, Polly, I wish you would come down directly after +dinner. I want to talk with you."</p> + +<p>She went upstairs wondering if the "talk" were to be about going +back to Aunt Jane's. She had not reached any conclusion when the +sight of Miss Lucy and Leonora put the troublesome matter from +their mind.</p> + +<p>"My precious!" breathed Miss Lucy in her ear.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you darling Polly!" squealed the little lame girl, with a +frantic hug. "We thought you must be kid—kid—kid'aped, or +whatever 't is!" she ended desperately.</p> + +<p>"I was—by Aunt Jane," laughed Polly; "but Dr. Dudley rescued +me."</p> + +<p>"Maybe he would n't, if it had n't been for Colonel Gresham," +returned Leonora, with a shake of her head, as the other children +jostled her carelessly, in their eagerness to be at the front.</p> + +<p>"What did the Colonel do?" queried Polly wonderingly' but the +rest claimed her, and the answer had to wait.</p> + +<p>"You've lost your locket!" cried Stella Pope. "Did you know +it?"</p> + +<p>"It is n't los exactly," Polly explained, instinctively +shielding the guilty lad as much as possible in her brief +narration of facts.</p> + +<p>"Aw, what a kid!" sniffed Johnny Ryan.</p> + +<p>"The horrid boy!" worried Mabel Camp. "What if they don't ever +find it!"</p> + +<p>"Where's yer hair ribbon?" asked Frederica, feeling responsible +for the safety of that bit of dainty blue, since she had aided in +its first use.</p> + +<p>Again Polly stood in defense.</p> + +<p>"My cousin Maude wore it to school, and she had n't come home +when I left."</p> + +<p>"What made yer let her?" mourned Frederica. "Bet yer I would +n't!"</p> + +<p>"Come, Polly, and change your dress," interposed Miss Lucy, +guessing somewhat of the truth from the little girl's reddening +cheeks and hesitating voice.</p> + +<p>In the dressing-room, behind the closed door, the nurse took Polly +in her arms.</p> + +<p>"It is so good to have you back again," she told her, with +kisses for emphasis.</p> + +<p>The words stabbed the child's heart. The time was to be so short! +Still Polly would not spoil to-day with to-morrow's nor next day's +troubles, and she summoned brave smiles and gay responses, until +she half forgot the dreary fourth-floor flat where she had passed +the night.</p> + +<p>Leonora caught an early chance to draw Polly away to a corner +where they could talk—or where she could, for she was bubbling +with excitement over the untold story of last night's doings.</p> + +<p>"My! I thought we'd go crazy when Mrs. Jocelyn telephoned to +know why you did n't come! There you'd had time to get to her +house over 'n' over again! Dr. Dudley just left ev'rything and +went off in his auto, and hunted and hunted, and you was n't +anywhere! The he told the police, and they went to lookin'!"</p> + +<p>"The police!" repeated Polly, big-eyed with astonishment.</p> + +<p>"Yes; but they could n't find you. Miss Lucy 'most cried, and +Dr. Dudley looked so sober I did n't dare speak to him. OH, it +was awful! We was sure you'd been kid—" Leonora hesitated, as +before.</p> + +<p>"Kidnaped," prompted Polly.</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, kidnapped! I never can remember how it goes. Well, +David said he knew you had been, and Miss Lucy kep' saying, 'Oh, +no! it can't be!' But she looked as if she'd sink when she said +it."</p> + +<p>"And what was it about Colonel Gresham?" Polly asked. "You said +—"</p> + +<p>"Yes," Leonora hurried on, "I'm comin' to it! We never any of +us thought of your Aunt Jane, till Colonel Gresham he said had n't +you gone to see her. Dr. Dudley told him of course you wouln n't, +when you' started for Mrs. Jocelyn's, and the Colonel he said he +should try her anyway. So Dr. Dudley jumped right into his auto +and raced off to where you aunt used to live. When she was n't +there, and the folks did n't know where she'd gone, and her name +was n't in the directory at any new place, he did n't know <i>what</i> +to do!"</p> + +<p>"She's married Mr. Bean," Poly put in, "so she'd Mrs. Bean +now."</p> + +<p>"Oh, maybe that's why he could n't find her! Well, he come home, +and he and Miss Lucy talked and talked, and High Price she talked, +too, and—"</p> + +<p>"High Price!" Poly broke out.</p> + +<p>"Yes, she felt awful about you bein' lost—my! I guess we all +did! You don't know! I did n't want to go to bed, and Miss Lucy +let me sit up, hoping we'd hear something; but finally I had to, +'cause there was a woman sick, and the Doctor had to stop huntin' +for you, and go and 'tend to her, and David went home, for there +was n't anybody any more to telephone to. This morning Dr. +Dudley he said he was going to find your Aunt Jane if she was in +this city, and the next thing we knew David come rushin' in, and +sayin' you was safe and sound—the Doctor had telephoned to +him. My! How glad we were! I never wanted to dance so much in +all my life! Say, why did n't you send word where you was?"</p> + +<p> +"I could n't." And Polly related something of her unhappy stay +in the house on Chestnut Street.</p> + +<p>She had not finished when David called up to know if Polly and +Leonora could be spared. He was alone in the office, and wanted +them.</p> + +<p>The lad was eager for Polly's story, and much of it had to be +retold. Then he disclosed news of his own.</p> + +<p>"We're going to move up to Uncle David's the first of next week. +Won't that be jolly? You can come over any time; it is so near."</p> + +<p>Leonora beamed her pleasure. Polly pushed back the tears.</p> + +<p>David's face shaded with sudden dismay.</p> + +<p>"You have n't got to go back to your Aunt Jane's?" he demanded +fiercely.</p> + +<p>Polly's head gave the answer. At the moment speech seemed +impossible.</p> + +<p>"You shall not!" he burst out. "If Dr. Dudley lets you go and +live with those—those heathen, I'll never speak to him again +as long as I live!"</p> + +<p>"Why, David Collins!" Polly's gentle voice was grieved and full +of astonishment.</p> + +<p>The pale, blue-eyed lad seemed to have vanished, and another to be +standing there before her. His eyes, grown suddenly dark, set in +that flaming face, gave him a most unnatural look.</p> + +<p>"I shall have to go—Aunt Jane says I must," she went on +sadly. "There's no other way."</p> + +<p>"There would be another way, if I was a man!" he raged. "Oh, oh! +I wish I were! I wish I were!" he cried passionately; and +throwing himself upon the couch, face downward, his shoulders +shook with sobs.</p> + +<p>Leonora bent her head on her arm, and wept silently.</p> + +<p>Polly was endeavoring to soothe them both when Dr. Dudley came in.</p> + +<p>Learning the cause of the tears, he remonstrated in his humorous +way, until Leonora smiled again; but David scorned such comfort, +refusing to move or to speak. Finally the Doctor started to +prepare the medicine he had come for, and the girls went upstairs, +Polly renewing to return directly after the noon meal.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="14"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XIV<br> +<br> +Polly's "Anne Sisters"</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +Dr. Dudley's office was without an occupant when Polly peeped in. +The Doctor had not returned from dinner, and David had gone home +for the rest of the day. The little girl wandered about the room, +too full of vague dread to care for books, or even for the fine +collection of sea shells, which usually she never tired of. They +had been brought home from foreign shores by an old uncle of the +physician's, and now, ranged on their wide shelves, they gleamed +out from a farther corner of the office in all the delicate tints +of their wonderful family.</p> + +<p>But to-day Polly passed them by with only a sigh, remembering the +happy times that she and David and Leonora had had in their close +company, now playing that they were mermaids, come to tell them +strange tales of the under-seas, now holding them to their ears, +to catch the mysterious, fascinating songs of the ocean which they +were always singing.</p> + +<p>"Here already?" broke in the Doctor's pleasant voice. "I don't +believe they gave you much of a dinner."</p> + +<p>"Yes, it was good; but I was n't hungry this noon," Polly +replied, with a wan little smile.</p> + +<p>"You were in such a hurry to come down and see me that it took +away your appetite—was that it?" he laughed.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," was the sober answer.</p> + +<p>The Doctor glanced furtively at her face, and grew grave at once. +He squared some books and magazines upon the table, and then sat +down in his lounging-chair, pulling Polly to his knee.</p> + +<p>"I want to know more about that Aunt Jane of yours," he began. +"Was you mother her sister, or—"</p> + +<p>"Oh, no, she was n't!" Polly interrupted. "Mamma was an only +child, just like me."</p> + +<p>"And your father—did he have brothers or sisters?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know," she answered slowly.</p> + +<p>"He died when I was three years old. I can only just remember +him."</p> + +<p>"Do you recollect what Aunt Jane's name was before she married? +Was it May?"</p> + +<p>Polly shook her head doubtfully. "I can't seem to think," she +mused. "Oh! I guess it was Carter, 'cause she's always saying +that Maude is clear Carter, just like her folds, and Marcus is all +Simpson, like Uncle Gregory."</p> + +<p>"What was you mother's maiden name, her name when she was a +girl?" the Doctor next questioned.</p> + +<p>"Phebe Illingworth. Grandma Illingworth was her mother. She +lived with us. She died the year before mamma did."</p> + +<p>"Thistledown," went on the Doctor, "some of my questions may +sound rude, but it is important that I know a little more than I +ever have known of your family history. I think you told me that +your mother gave piano lessons."</p> + +<p>"Yes, and grandma gave lessons on the violin and guitar, and +singing lessons too."</p> + +<p>"And what became of the piano and other musical instruments?" +asked the Doctor quickly.</p> + +<p>"I think Aunt Jane sold them. She sold 'most everything. Some +of the furniture she's got now."</p> + +<p>"Was it nice furniture?"</p> + +<p>"I think it was lovely. There was a beautiful sideboard—that +was grandma's—with carved birds on it, and the wood was light +brown—kind of yellowish—and so pretty!"</p> + +<p>"Was that sold?"</p> + +<p>Polly nodded sadly.</p> + +<p>"Did you mother ever go to the bank, do you remember?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, she did! She used to carry a little book."</p> + +<p>"Did you always have plenty of money to use—for food and +clothes and so on?"</p> + +<p>"I guess so. We had nice things to eat, and pretty things to +wear."</p> + +<p>"You never heard of any will, I suppose?"</p> + +<p>The curls shook slowly.</p> + +<p>"Your mother was not sick long, was she?" the Doctor asked +gently.</p> + +<p>"She was never sick. She was giving a music lesson, one +afternoon, and she fainted away—they could n't make her +live." The sorrowful voice softened almost to a whisper, and the +golden head drooped to Dr. Dudley's shoulder.</p> + +<p>He touched his lips to the white forehead, and tightened his clasp +of the slender little form.</p> + +<p>"I am sorry enough to have to bring all this back," he said; +"but, Thistledown, I must discover a way, if possible, to keep +you from that woman. I want to find out just how much legal right +she has in regard to you. If we could only obtain sufficient +evidence to prove that she is not a proper person to care for you +—"</p> + +<p>Polly had suddenly sat up straight, her eyes round with the +startling, beautiful thought.</p> + +<p>"Do you mean," she broke in excitedly, "that I should n't have +to go back to Aunt Jane?"</p> + +<p>The Doctor bowed. "But—" he began.</p> + +<p>"Oh, then I can stay with you!" she burst out. "She is n't +proper, she is n't nice, she is n't—anything!"</p> + +<p>"I know, my dear!" smiled the Doctor. "But such things are hard +to prove. I shall keep you, Thistledown, just as long as the law +will let me; but the law must be obeyed, and we can't tell how +things will come out."</p> + +<p>"Won't I have to go back to-morrow?" she asked eagerly.</p> + +<p>"No, indeed," he assured her. "Were you dreading that? Don't be +afraid, Thistledown! Keep up a stout heart! You shall stay here +for the present anyway." He looked at his watch. "I think I'll +find Jack at home now," he said; and, letting Polly slip to her +feet, he placed her in his chair and crossed over to the +telephone.</p> + +<p>Polly listened breathlessly. She knew that "Jack" must mean +only Jack Brewster, a lawyer of the city, who had been a college +classmate of the Doctor's. The two were close friends.</p> + +<p>"That you, Jack?" Polly heard. "Yes. I want to see you +professionally, as soon as possible. No," laughing; "but it is +important. Can you come up this evening? All right. Good-bye."</p> + +<p>"Jack Brewster will do his best for us," the Doctor said, coming +back. "He says he will be here at seven or a little after. I +think it probably that he will wish to ask you a few questions; +but you won't be afraid of him. He is one of the gentlest men I +ever knew—and the strongest," he added.</p> + +<p>"I am not afraid of anybody that is your friend," returned +Polly.</p> + +<p>The Doctor smiled. "A very pretty compliment!" he told her; but +she gave his praise scant notice.</p> + +<p>"I wonder," she said, "if you would like to see the little book +mama wrote about my Anne sisters."</p> + +<p>"You what?" he queried.</p> + +<p>"My Anne sisters."</p> + +<p>Only his twinkling eyes disclosed his amusement. "Ancestors you +mean, don't you?" he corrected gently.</p> + +<p>"Maybe," doubtfully; "but there are lots of Annes in it that are +related to me."</p> + +<p>"Where is the book?"</p> + +<p>"Right upstairs, in 'Under the Lilacs.' Don't you remember, you +went down to Aunt Jane's, and got some of my books when I was able +to sit up?"</p> + +<p>"I recollect," he nodded.</p> + +<p>"Well, that was why I sent for this one 'specially, because I +knew it had the little book init, and mamma told me always to keep +it. So I thought I'd better have it with me."</p> + +<p>"Run up and get it, child! It may be—" Polly was gone.</p> + +<p>It was indeed a very little book that she put in the Doctor's +hand, simply a few sheets of small note paper sewed together.</p> + +<p>"It has about the Illingworth family in one part, and about the +May folds in the other," Polly explained; but it is to be doubted +if Dr. Dudley heard her, so eagerly was he scanning those lists of +names. He clutched at one forlorn thread of hope, and as he read, +the feeble thread waxed into a cord of strength.</p> + +<p>"Polly—" he began brightly, and then stopped. After all he +could not be sure, and he must not raise happy anticipations only +to see them blasted. His face shaded, and he finished the +sentence quite differently from what he had intended. He went on +gravely, "Did the Simpsons take charge of everything after your +mother went? Was nobody else there?"</p> + +<p>"Not to stay, except Mrs. Brooks, who lived downstairs. She was +n't there much. I guess Aunt Jane did n't want her."</p> + +<p>"Probably not," remarked the Doctor grimly.</p> + +<p>"Is the book any good?" she asked wistfully.</p> + +<p>Again he was tempted to tell her, and again he restrained himself.</p> + +<p>"I think it will be of use to us," he replied.</p> + +<p>"Did you see all the Annes?" she queried. "Are n't there a lot +of them?"</p> + +<p>He nodded laughingly. "It is a good name and I have discovered +yours among them."</p> + +<p>"Did n't you know it before? It is Marry Anne, after my great-aunt +Mary Anne Illingworth. I don't like it so well as Polly."</p> + +<p>"Or Thistledown," he added gaily. His spirits had risen +wonderfully since seeing the little book.</p> + +<p>The sudden change had its effect on Polly, and when she went +upstairs it was with something of her accustomed blitheness.</p> + +<p>The afternoon passed pleasantly, but after supper the little girl +grew unaccountably nervous. She started at every ring of the +telephone, and gave queer, absent-minded answers to Leonora's +questions. Finally Miss Lucy, comprehending the situation, +proposed a game; but Polly, usually the quickest of the children, +allowed the others to eclipse her, while her ears were strained +for the expected summons. At last, when the message came, she +started downstairs with a fluttering heart, her nerves a-quiver +with irrational fear.</p> + +<p>At any other time she would have been pleased at the thought of +meeting Dr. Dudley's friend of whom she had heard so many +delightful things; but now a vague terror possessed her, lest he, +being a part of that awful law,—which to her was only a name +of dread,—might send her directly back to Aunt Jane's.</p> + +<p>Polly rarely had a fall, so light and sure of foot was she; but at +the top of the flight she stumbled and came near going headlong. +This, turning her thoughts suddenly into another path, seemed +somewhat to steady her quaking nerves, and when she reached the +office door she was ready to smile a brave, though shy, greeting +to the lawyer.</p> + +<p>Jack Brewster was in appearance the opposite of Dr. Dudley. The +physician was tall and broad-shouldered, with no surplus flesh; +yet none would have called him thin. The lawyer was slight almost +as a boy, of fair complexion, with an abundance of wavy brown +hair, and eyes that had a habit of shining as if their owner had +just received a bit of good news. They shone now, as he took one +of Polly's little hands in both his own, and told her how glad he +was to make her acquaintance.</p> + +<p>"I have n't any little girl at my house," he went on smilingly, +"but there's a boy who makes things pretty lively. When I +started to come away this evening he hugged my leg, and kept +saying, 'No sir-ee-sir! No sir-ee-sir!' till I finally had to go +back and tell him his usual bedtime story."</p> + +<p>"How old is he?" asked Polly, her fears quite forgotten.</p> + +<p>"He will be two years, the third of next month. Bob," whirling +around to the Doctor, "why have n't you brought Miss Polly out to +see us? I'm ashamed of you!"</p> + +<p>The physician laughed. "I am not very neighborly, I'll admit," +he returned. "Sick people have crowded out the well ones lately. +I know well folks will keep."</p> + +<p>"Then the only way for me to get hold of you is to feign a chill +or a fever or a broken leg—all right! Thank you for the cue! +And now, Miss Polly," he went on cheerily, "I want you hones +opinion of that aunt of yours. Tell me, please, just how she +makes you feel."</p> + +<p>"Wh-y," hesitated the surprised little girl, "if I should say +right out, I'm afraid it would n't sound very polite or—"</p> + +<p>"Don't think anything about politeness just now, please. Open +your heart frankly, and let me see what is there in regard to her. +Don't be afraid to say exactly what you think. It may help me +very much. I want to be able to look at her through your clear +eyes."</p> + +<p>A shadow darkened the fair little face, and pain crept in, and +stayed.</p> + +<p>"She seems," Polly began slowly, "like a dreadful dream—you know, +when you wake up all shivery, and are so glad it is n't real. +Only"—with a little catch—"Aunt Jane is real! Sometimes I feel +sick all over when I think about her, and going back there—oh," +she burst out passionately, "I'd rather die than go back to live +with her! Mr. Brewster, don't make me go! Please don't make me +go!" The words came with a half sob, but she fought the tears +back, and her appealing eyes searched his face for hope.</p> + +<p>"My dear child," he exclaimed tenderly, "you must not worry one +bit more about this! You have given me exactly what I want. Now +leave the matter with Dr. Dudley and me. Will you agree to do +this?"</p> + +<p>"If I can," she answered softly; "but Aunt Jane is very hard to +forget!"</p> + +<p>"I dare say she is," smiled the lawyer; "but I think you can do +it. You know the best way to forget a disagreeable thing?"</p> + +<p>No, Polly did not.</p> + +<p>"It is to keep thinking of other things, pleasant things, until +the mind is so full of them that there is n't a scrap of room for +whatever is annoying. You try it, and see if I am not right!"</p> + +<p>"There are lots of pleasant things to think of," smiled Polly.</p> + +<p>"To be sure there are! One is, that Dr. Dudley is going to bring +you out to my house some morning to stay all day."</p> + +<p>"Oh," beamed Polly, "that would be nice!" She looked across at +the Doctor.</p> + +<p>He nodded happily.</p> + +<p>"If he does n't do it," and the lawyer made a comical grimace in +Dr. Dudley's direction, "I'll come after you myself."</p> + +<p>Polly gurgled out her little laugh, which sounded as if she had +already begun to follow the lawyer's advice, and she thanked him +very sweetly for his invitation and his promise. Presently she +went upstairs, and Miss Lucy was relieved to see that she appeared +more like her usual self. But she was very quiet, repeating +nothing of what had passed in the office. It had been a hard day, +and Polly was glad when the time came for her to creep into bed.</p> + +<p>On Saturday Miss Lucy and her small assistant had a busy morning. +There was scant time to think about Aunt Jane. When she did +appear in Polly's mind, the little girl remembered Mr. Brewster's +counsel, and hastened to perform her task in hand with exceeding +faithfulness, putting on fresh pillows slips with as much care as +if the welfare of the ward depended on their being straight to a +thread. Her efforts were successful, for they pushed away Aunt +Jane. So the forenoon passed, leaving her at dinner time a little +more tired than usual, but free from the worry of the day before.</p> + +<p>Soon after the meal Miss Lucy went downstairs. When she came back +Polly was playing Authors with Leonora, Mabel, Frederica, and +Stella. She stopped beside Polly's chair.</p> + +<p>"Dr. Dudley wants you," she smiled. "Run right along, and I will +take your place."</p> + +<p>Polly went, wondering, but fearing little. Miss Lucy's face was +too radiant to betoken anything unpleasant.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley held out his arms, and the little girl ran into them.</p> + +<p>"Glorious news, Thistledown! It is all settled! 'Aunt Jane' has +no right to you whatever!"</p> + +<p>"Oh!" she gasped, and went suddenly white.</p> + +<p>The Doctor dropped into a chair, and took her in his lap, letting +her lean against him.</p> + +<p>"I'm glad you are going to school next week," he declared. "You +will get out of doors more. I'm not going to have you paling up +in this way every little while. You are in the house too much."</p> + +<p>"I'm all right," she argued. "Tell me about it, please!"</p> + +<p>"To begin with," he smiled, "these people are no relatives of +yours."</p> + +<p>Polly's eyes rounded with amazement.</p> + +<p>"And Aunt Jane is n't my aunt at all?"</p> + +<p>"Not the least mite of an aunt," he laughed. "It was a hard +thing for her to admit; but she had to do it."</p> + +<p>"You have seen her?" queried Polly.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Brewster and I were there this forenoon. It seems that she +lived next door to you at the time your father died, and, +according to her own statement, she gave you mother a great deal +of assistance at that time. It is easy to see how she made your +mother feel under obligations to her, and the rest came about as +it naturally might with such a woman. When she saw her chance for +gain she improved it. She has defrauded you out of household +goods and money; but Jack thinks we should hardly make anything by +taking the matter into court. There is nearly two thousand +dollars still to your credit in the bank, and that shall stay +there till you are of age. She was allowed only a certain sum per +week for your support—the rest she could not touch; but she +did what she pleased, it seems, with the money received for +furniture and so on. She has no property that we can get hold of, +except the things which belonged to your mother. Those we can +take, if you will tell me what they are."</p> + +<p>"Oh! Can I have mamma's little rosewood work-table! I saw it +there the other day."</p> + +<p>The Doctor was busy with pad and pencil.</p> + +<p>"The sooner we get them the better, so think hard now, and I'll +note them down."</p> + +<p>"There's a good deal of china, and some nice glass dishes, and +the silver spoons and forks—I could tell which they were if I +could see them."</p> + +<p>"You are going to pick them out, with Mr. Brewster and me."</p> + +<p>"I'm going there?" Polly cried.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley nodded. "You're not afraid?" He smiled reassuringly.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no, not with you!" she replied. "There's two trunks," she +went on, "with some of mamma's clothes in. A good many are worn +out—she wore 'em, and make 'em over for the girls and me. +Then there are all our books, and three or four chairs, and a +lovely clock—oh, and a great pile of mamma's music, with some +pieces that she wrote herself!"</p> + +<p>The list was longer than Dr. Dudley had expected. When Polly +could think of nothing more, he called up the lawyer by telephone, +making an appointment to meet him. Shortly afterwards he put +Polly in the auto, and they started for Mrs. Bean's.</p> + +<p>On the way the little girl thought of her precious locket.</p> + +<p>"We shall get it if we can," the Doctor told her. "Mrs. Bean +appears to be honest about that. She believes the boy has it; but +he professes innocence. I fancy she will keep him out of our way +if possible."</p> + +<p>They took the lawyer in at his office, and Polly finished her ride +sitting on his knee.</p> + +<p>When Mrs. Bean learned their errand, she turned, then white, and +seemed greatly excited. At first she was inclined to resent their +coming as an intrusion, declaring, "There ain't much belongin' to +the kid anyhow." But, as earlier in the day, she quailed before +Mr. Brewster's firm, quiet speech, and sullenly led the way to the +various articles called for. Finally nothing remained unchecked +on the list except the two trunks.</p> + +<p>"I h'ain't got no trunks," the woman bristled. "You've seen my +rooms an' all there is in 'em! Them trunks prob'ly was sold along +with other things."</p> + +<p>"Why, Aunt Jane," put in Polly, "they were here just before I +was hurt. I remember, because—"</p> + +<p>"Huh!" she cackled. "I was n't here then, an' I guess they +wa'n't!"</p> + +<p>"I mean where we lived then," corrected Polly.</p> + +<p>"Wal, they ain't here nor there now," she insisted.</p> + +<p>"Can't we go up attic?" questioned Polly. "You said, the other +day, there was an attic to—"</p> + +<p>"I hain't got nothin' up there," Mrs. Bean broke in, with +flaming face.</p> + +<p>"Will you allow us to look through it, please?" The lawyer's +voice was low, but tense.</p> + +<p>"There ain't no call for you to go paradin' up there," she +snapped. "Pretty how d' y' do, if you can't take my word for +it!"</p> + +<p>"It is an easy matter to be mistaken," Mr. Brewster smiled. +"Have you a key to the apartment? Or is it open?"</p> + +<p>Mrs. Bean took time for reply, narrowing her eyes, as if in deep +thought. She was quick to see the loophole of escape which the +lawyer had shown her. Still she hesitated.</p> + +<p>"Wal," she muttered finally, "it's barely possible I was +thinkin' o' some other trunks; but I don't b'lieve I was. I do' +know; I'm driven to death. I sh'd think I'd forgit my own name, +slavin' 's I have to! 'T won't do no hurt, I s'pose, for you to go +up an' see."</p> + +<p>The trunks were found, as Mr. Brewster had been sure they would +be. He opened both, and he and Polly hastily looked over their +contents. Besides bundles of old letters, photographs, and +numerous little mementoes, there was much of value,—fine table +and bed linen, and silk dress, some exquisite laces, and a little +box of odd pieces of jewelry.</p> + +<p>"Oh!" Polly burst out, "I forgot grandma's watch! And mama's +coral pin and her topaz ring!"</p> + +<p>"They're downstairs," volunteered Mrs. Bean. "I forgot them, +too!"</p> + +<p>After the trunks were locked, and the keys in Mr. Brewster's +pocket, he and the Doctor carried them into the hallway. While +they were busy, there was a clatter of feet on the lower stairs, +and Mrs. Bean slipped hurriedly away.</p> + +<p>"I guess the children have come," said Polly.</p> + +<p>But when the three reached the apartment below, no young folds +were visible, and the lawyer silently concluded to defer his +attempt with Gregory until another time.</p> + +<p>Another later Polly's goods were brought to the hospital, and +Leonora and several other children, who were able to be +downstairs, were given the unbounded delight of seeing them +unloaded.</p> + +<a name="ILL-3"></a> +<center> +<a href="images/music.jpg"> +<img src="images/music.jpg" width=400 border=0 +alt="Forgetting All but the Music She Loved"></a> +</center> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="15"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XV<br> +<br> +A Bid For Polly</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +Early on Monday morning Polly received an urgent request from Mrs. +Jocelyn that she begin her delayed visit that very hour. So, as +school was to open on Wednesday, it was decided that the little +girl should accept the renewed invitation, and that Dr. Dudley +should fetch her home on the succeeding afternoon.</p> + +<p>"By that time," observed David, "we shall be all moved, and we +can go to school together in the morning."</p> + +<p>"But, oh, dear!" groaned Leonora, "that Aunt Jane will get you +again, sure! Oh, Dr. Dudley, don't let her go alone, please +don't!"</p> + +<p>Polly laughed happily. It was hard for Leonora to realize that +Mrs. Bean had no more power over her beloved friend.</p> + +<p>But Dr. Dudley did not laugh. Leonora had been of the band of +anxious ones on that night of suspense, and he could understand +how she still feared to have Polly venture for without a +protector.</p> + +<p>"You need not worry," he assured her. "I shall not let Polly out +of my sight until she is safely inside Mrs. Jocelyn's house."</p> + +<p>"I could go alone just as well," smiled the little girl. "There +is n't any danger."</p> + +<p>"It is too long a walk," returned the Doctor, "and don't you +dare to come back, young lady, until you come with me!" He shook +his finger at her threateningly.</p> + +<p>She giggled, while David remarked, with a mischievous twinkle:—</p> + +<p>"That would be a good way to keep her there—you need n't go +after her!"</p> + +<p>"Do you want me to stay away, David Collins?" demanded Polly.</p> + +<p>"No, I don't," he admitted laughing.</p> + +<p>"Oh, don't talk about her staying away!" pleaded Leonora. "We +did, just in fun, last time, and then she was lost!"</p> + +<p>"Oh, you funny, blessed Leonora!" cried Polly, putting her arms +around her friend's neck, "I'm not going to get lost, or stay +away, either—only one night. I guess you can stand it for +just one night."</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley saw his charge inside Mrs. Jocelyn's door, according to +his promise; but the little lady told him that he need not come +after her, for she would bring her back on the following day.</p> + +<p>Mrs. Jocelyn's home was in a delightful quarter of the city, +opposite a park of many acres. The house was dignified mansion, +full of stately old furniture, and if it had not been for its +owner's cheery hospitality it would have been rather awe-inspiring +to a little girl like Polly. But Polly, having been several times +a guest in the big house, now felt quite at home, and ran up and +down the polished oaken stairs and through the grand, dimly +lighted hallways as merrily as if she had always been used to such +imposing surroundings.</p> + +<p>"It is too bad Dorothy could n't stay over till this week," Mrs. +Jocelyn said; "but never mind! She'll come again before long, +and then you'll see her. We'll have such pleasant times to-day +and to-morrow, that she won't be missed. This afternoon are going +shopping, and you are to buy presents for everybody you like."</p> + +<p>"Oh!" beamed Polly.</p> + +<p>"And to-morrow morning," her hostess went on, "we are invited to +a musicale across the street, at Mrs. Trowbridge's, where we shall +the wonderful little violinist who is being made so much of by +musicians."</p> + +<p>"Won't that be lovely!" cried Polly. "I have n't heard any music +in ever so long, except at church, and David's singing."</p> + +<p>Mrs. Jocelyn smiled appreciatively. "I knew you would enjoy it," +she said. "Now I shall be busy for a few minutes, and you can do +anything you choose,—mouse around the library, or play on the +piano, or make out a list of what you'd like to give your friends. +We will start soon after luncheon. You won't have time for much; +I'm only going to make a salad dressing which I fancy I can mix a +little better than Tilly can. Then I'll help you with the +presents."</p> + +<p>Polly had taken lessons of her mother, and her fingers still +remembered bits of the pieces she had learned; so the piano was +her first choice. Lured on by the familiar airs, she played and +played, forgetting all but the music she loved.</p> + +<p>Mrs. Jocelyn returned from the kitchen, and, unnoticed, slipped +into a seat back of the player.</p> + +<p>Finally Polly turned around.</p> + +<p>"I felt you there!" she laughed. "Have I hindered you?"</p> + +<p>"You have been charming me. Why, child, I did n't know you could +play so well! And all out of practice, too! I should n't think +you could recollect a note."</p> + +<p>"My fingers seem to," Polly smiled. "I'll think I don't know a +piece, and then my hands go right along and play it."</p> + +<p>"I wish mine would," laughed Mrs. Jocelyn. "But I've let my +music go too long; it will never come back." Her last tones were +a little sad, but she quickly recovered her gayety. "Suppose we +think over now," she proposed, "what you would like to purchase +at the stores, and where we shall need to go. Then we can the +better map out our afternoon."</p> + +<p>Polly was all eagerness at once, and her hostess was no less +interested.</p> + +<p>"Are n't there some new girls in the ward who have n't any +dolls?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," Polly answered, "there are five or six. Let me see," +tapping off the names on her fingers, "there's Mabel, and Stella, +and Frederica, and Angiola, and Trotty,—she's only four,— +and Mary Pender, and Ida Regan,—she's real pretty; that makes +seven: I think that's all."</p> + +<p>"You shall choose a doll for each one of them. You will know +better than I just what will suit."</p> + +<p>"Oh, it will be such fun!" chuckled Polly. "And you sure so good +to do it!"</p> + +<p>"Pshaw!" exclaimed the little lady. "I'm only being good to +myself. I have just begun to learn what money is for, and I am +enjoying it—for the first time in years!" A shadow stole over +the wrinkled pink-and-white face; but a smile quickly chased it +away. "Now, my love, whose name shall head your list of especial +friends?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know," Polly hesitated. "Do you mean children?"</p> + +<p>"I mean anybody that you would like to honor with a gift. +Suppose you begin with Miss Price—Miss Lucy Price."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'd love to! But what could I get?"</p> + +<p>"Plenty of things to choose from,—books and jewelry and all +sorts of knick-knacks, besides pretty bits to wear."</p> + +<p>"I think she'd like a new hand bag," ventured Polly. "Hers is so +gray and shabby. Would it cost too much?"</p> + +<p>"No, indeed!" laughed Mrs. Jocelyn. "You shall buy the very +prettiest one we can find. But before I forget it I must see +about something else. I want your picture, and I know your +hospital friends would like it, too. Wait a minute, and I'll call +up Fisher, and secure an appointment for this afternoon if +possible."</p> + +<p>She disappeared in the tiny room back of the staircase, set apart +for the telephone, and Polly heard her voice, as she talked over +the wire. "I have promised to have you there at three o'clock," +she announced presently. "That will give us a good two hours for +shopping, if we don't talk too long over our luncheon."</p> + +<p>"Am I dressed all right?" queried Polly, anxiously; adding, "Who +will want my picture? The folks at the hospital see me all the +time."</p> + +<p>"Oh, you precious bit of humanity!" cried the little lady, +taking Polly in her arms. "If I should tell you that you will +make so sweet a picture that everybody will want it, would you +believe it?"</p> + +<p>"No," Polly laughed, "because it would n't be true."</p> + +<p>Mrs. Jocelyn kissed her for answer, and then asked what she would +like to give to David.</p> + +<p>"He has a knife," mused Polly, scowling her forehead over the +problem.</p> + +<p>"How would a sterling silver fruit knife do?" suggested the +little lady.</p> + +<p>That was decided to be just the thing, and went down on the list. +For Dr. Dudley, in addition to the photograph, Polly thought a +nice handkerchief would be suitable gift, and Mrs. Jocelyn wrote, +"Box of H." opposite his name.</p> + +<p>"Could I give Leonora Hewitt something to wear?" ventured Polly. +"She thinks so much of pretty things; but she can't have many, +because her father is poor, and there are a lot of children +besides her. Leonora is a sweet girl—and, oh, is n't it +lovely? Dr. Dudley says now that she will get over her lameness, +and be able to walk as well as anybody!"</p> + +<p>"That is delightful!" agreed Mrs. Jocelyn. "You shall surely get +a beautiful something for Leonora."</p> + +<p>"Don't you think a pink hair ribbon would be nice?" Polly asked.</p> + +<p>Her hostess smiled over the modesty of the gift, and was about to +suggest some article of jewelry; but she finally let it go as +Polly had chose, only adding on the paper, "and sash."</p> + +<p>"We may change every one of these, when we come to the real +selection," laughed the little lady; "but the list will be a +guide."</p> + +<p>Nobody was forgotten, not even Miss Hortensia Price, an +"Illustrated Browning" being against her name.</p> + +<p>They were on their way shortly after one o'clock, in Mrs. +Jocelyn's stately coach, drawn by the handsome iron-grays that +were Polly's admiration. It would be hard to say which enjoyed +the shopping most, Polly in her innocent delight of giving, or +the old little lady who was fast growing young in her now-found +life. With a carriage full of bundles, they drove up to the +photographer's precisely at the hour appointed, and Polly, radiant +from her joyful experience, made a picture that charmed the artist +as well as his patron.</p> + +<p>The next morning's musicale was quite the feast that Polly had +anticipated, and Mrs. Jocelyn's was a twofold enjoyment. The +little girl had feared that her white dress was too wrinkled for +grand a party; so her hostess's maid had smoothed it into its +original perfection, and, to make good the hair ribbon that had +been lost, Mrs. Jocelyn had bought an even prettier one—the +palest blue sprinkled with forget-me-nots, and sash too match.</p> + +<p>After luncheon came the delightful task of giving the presents +pretty holiday touches with fancy tissue papers and gay ribbons.</p> + +<p>"We're having the best part of it, are n't we?" chuckled Polly, +tilting her head to one side as she tied a pink baby ribbon around +Leonora's dainty box.</p> + +<p>The little lady did not instantly answer; then, dropping her work, +she caught the surprised child in her arms with almost a sob.</p> + +<p>"O Polly, Polly!" she cried passionately, "I must have you! I +must! I must! You have taught me how to live, and you belong to +me! O Polly! Will you come?" She held her off, gazing pleadingly +into her face.</p> + +<p>"What—do you mean?" faltered the little girl.</p> + +<p>"My darling! Did I frighten you? I mean I want you for my own +dear daughter! I have n't said anything before, because I feared +the woman you have supposed was your aunt would not give you up. +But now that you are free I feel that I must have you? I meant to +speak to Dr. Dudley first; but I could n't wait, dearest! Don't +you want to come and live with me? I know it's a gloomy old +house, but I will make it all over into the sunshiniest home you +ever saw. You shall have everything you wish! I will buy you the +very prettiest pair of Shetland ponies I can find, and the +loveliest little carriage! You can take your friends driving +every day!"</p> + +<p>"That would be beautiful," responded Polly, with a faint smile.</p> + +<p>"And you shall have the nicest doll house you ever heard of, and +a whole set of furniture for your biggest doll! I'll fit you up +two of the prettiest rooms in the house, and furnish them in white +and blue! You shall have a new piano and take lessons of the very +best master, and next summer we will go abroad and see all the +wonders of Europe! Oh, there's no end to the happy things we'll +do, if you will come and be my little girl! You will; won't you, +Polly?"</p> + +<p>"Why, I—don't know!" gasped the child. "You take my breath +away!" She looked actually distressed.</p> + +<p>"Poor darling!" The little lady folded Polly in her arms. "Of +course you can't make up your mind all in a minute! I've thought +of it so long, I did n't realize that it was news to you. I'm +such an impatient body! Talk it over with Dr. Dudley, and he will +make things all clear. Now we'll forget it, and finish up these +packages. What do yo suppose Leonora will say to her new +ribbons?"</p> + +<p>The voice was gay, so sure was the little lady that Polly, +counseled by the far-seeing doctor, would make quick choice of so +auspicious an offer.</p> + +<p>But Polly could not easily be won back to her former blitheness. +She finished her part of the task in an absent-minded manner; yet +by the time she was on her way to deliver her presents she was +more talkative and merry.</p> + +<p>So splendid a coach was seldom seen on the poor, narrow street +where Brida lived, and big-eyed babies and listless loungers +watched its progress. Brida was at school; but her mother +received with loud expressions of gratitude and praise the pretty +doll carriage which Polly had brought.</p> + +<p>Elsie, in a still narrower, dirtier street, had a similar gift; +while for the others of Polly's hospital friends who had returned +to their homes there were books and paper dolls, pocket knives and +boxes of candy. It was a pleasant hour, yet Polly was not sorry +when the carriage turned towards the hospital.</p> + +<p>Mrs. Jocelyn would not go in, and the little girl bade her good-bye +with a clinging embrace.</p> + +<p>"I love you de-arly!" she whispered: which made the little lady +smile happily to herself all the way up the street.</p> + +<p>Nobody was in the Doctor's office, and Polly lingered by the pile +of packages which the footman had deposited on the couch. She was +pulling out David's present from under the others, the present +that had finally been changed from a fruit knife to a flute, when +a voice from the doorway called out:—</p> + +<p>"Hul-lo, Pol-lee!"</p> + +<p>She turned, to see David's merry face.</p> + +<p>"You can't guess what I've got for you!" chuckled the lad.</p> + +<p>"You could n't possibly guess what I've got for you!" she +retorted gaily.</p> + +<p>David's eyes opened wonderingly, falling on the pile of bundles. +Then he went back to his own secret.</p> + +<p>Putting his hand in his pocket, he drew forth what Polly had +feared she should never see again.</p> + +<p>"My locket and chain!" she cried.</p> + +<p>David grinned happily, and passed over the necklace.</p> + +<p>"Where did you get it?" she questioned.</p> + +<p>"You may thank Cornelius for it," he told her. "I met him down +on Grant Street, and—I don't know what made me—I happened +to speak of your losing this. He was interested all at once, and +wanted me to tell him just how it looked. When I said the locket +was set with turquoises, he clapped his hand on his side and cried +out, 'I bet yer that was it! I bet yer 't was!' It seems he'd +seen a boy—only this morning—showing a locket to a little +kid, and he thought then it was queer he should be having a girl's +locket round that way. Cornelius said he could get it easy enough +of the boy had it with him. So we went round to the school, and +waited till 't was out. He had to go on an errand for his father +this afternoon, and so was excused early.</p> + +<p>"Burt Sehl is the boy's name, and Cornelius and I walked along +with him till we got off the street—Cornel' was sharp enough +not to tackle him near the school. As soon as the crowd thinned +out, he asked him if he had that locket, and at first Burt put up +a bluff. Finally he admitted that he got it from Greg. Simpson; +said he swapped a lot of tops and marbles for it."</p> + +<p>"I should n't suppose he'd have given it up," cried Polly +excitedly.</p> + +<p>David laughed. "He did n't without a tussle; but Cornelius was +more than a match for him—my! Don't I wish I were as strong as +he!"</p> + +<p>"You will be some day," encouraged Polly. "But I'm glad I chose +that book for Cornelius—it's all about a knight!"</p> + +<p>"What book?" queried David.</p> + +<p>"Oh, the book I left at his home for him this afternoon! I +forgot," and she caught up the long parcel for David. "I hope +you'll like that," she said.</p> + +<p>The boy's eyes glistened when he saw what it was.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you don't know how many times I've wished I had a flute!" +he cried, fingering the little instrument delightedly.</p> + +<p>"What's going on here?" called Dr. Dudley, from the open door.</p> + +<p>"These are going <i>in here!</i>" flashed Polly, deftly transferring +a square, thin package from the couch to the Doctor's pocket.</p> + +<p>It caught and held by one corner, but the physician did not leave +it long. He looked at it critically, and then laid it on the +table, and began untying the bright ribbon which bound it.</p> + +<p>"You have seen the hole in my Sunday handkerchief!" exclaimed +the Doctor, dramatically, his eyes a-twinkle as he opened the box.</p> + +<p>Polly and David laughed.</p> + +<p>The handkerchiefs were fine and dainty enough to suit the most +fastidious gentleman, and Dr. Dudley expressed sincere admiration +for the gift.</p> + +<p>Then the story of the locket had to be told again, and at its end +David discovered that it was time for him to be at his new home.</p> + +<p>Polly began to look over the packages, picking out what she wished +to carry upstairs at once.</p> + +<p>"Are n't you going to tell me about your visit?" asked the +Doctor, dropping into his easiest chair with a luxurious sigh of +relief, after a hard day.</p> + +<p>The little girl's face grew suddenly grave. In the pleasure of +the last hour she had forgotten the trouble that had been looming +ahead of her ever since Mrs. Jocelyn's proposition. She laid +Mabel's doll back on the pile, and came slowly over to the Doctor.</p> + +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="16"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XVI<br> +<br> +A Secret</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +"You went shopping, I observe," began Dr. Dudley, tentatively.</p> + +<p>"Yes," responded Polly, balancing herself on the arm of his +chair. "Mrs. Jocelyn bought lots of things for me to give to +people. We bade out a list—or she did. She let me choose."</p> + +<p>"That was kind."</p> + +<p>"Yes," Polly assented, and then studied the rug for a moment.</p> + +<p>The Doctor waited.</p> + +<p>"We went to a musicale, this forenoon, at Mrs. Trowbridge's," +she resumed. "The little boy was there who plays the violin so +beautifully. Mrs. Jocelyn got me a new hair ribbon and sash to +wear."</p> + +<p>"Did you enjoy those better than the music?" twinkled the +doctor.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no!" The tone was almost reproachful. "One piece the boy +played was lovely. I hated to have him stop. I wish I could play +as well as he—no, I don't either! I don't want to!" she +burst out fiercely.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley glanced at her quizzically. "You seem to be a young +lady of changeable opinions," he smiled.</p> + +<p>Her lip quivered; but she struggled hard against tears.</p> + +<p>"Suppose you tell me all about it, Thistledown," the Doctor said +gently.</p> + +<p>"Oh, don't let me go and be her little girl!" she broke out. +"Don't! don't! I'll do anything, if you'll only let me stay +with you!"</p> + +<p>He drew her down into his lap, and soothed her with tender words.</p> + +<p>"Nobody shall ever take you from me against your will, Thistledown!" +His voice was tensely unnatural. "Does Mrs. Jocelyn wish to adopt +you? Did she say so?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know about adopting. She wants me to go and live with +her. She said I could have everything, if I only would,—a new +piano, and lessons, and two rooms all furnished beautiful, and a +doll house, and go to Europe, and a pony—two of 'em—and, +oh, I don't remember half!"</p> + +<p>And you are sure you wish to give up all that grandeur for this +old codgery doctor who has n't any money?"</p> + +<p>"You are n't old, and you are n't cod—the other thing—and +I love you! Do you—do you want me to go?" she sobbed.</p> + +<p>"Thistledown,"—and his voice was very tender,—"I think +such an arrangement as Mrs. Jocelyn proposes would break my heart. +Still, if you really would be happy in going to her, I trust I +should be unselfish and brave enough to give you up. But I am +gladder than you can guess that you have chosen the life with +me."</p> + +<p>"I could n't choose any other way; but I love her, I lover her +ever so much!" Polly sighed. "I'm afraid she will feel bad not +to have me go. Oh, I wish there did n't so many folks want me— +first Aunt Jane, and now her!"</p> + +<p>"It must be rather troublesome to be in such demand," the Doctor +smiled.</p> + +<p>"It is," responded Polly between a laugh and a sob.</p> + +<p>The sat for a while in silence, Polly's head nestled on the broad +shoulder.</p> + +<p>Finally Dr. Dudley spoke. "Can you keep a secret?"</p> + +<p>"I think I could—I know I could," she answered slowly; "but +I never have any to keep."</p> + +<p>"I am going to let you into one," he smiled; "but you must n't +breathe a word of it to anybody."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I won't! I won't tell it as long as I live!" she declared +solemnly.</p> + +<p>He laughed. "This will not be so great a tax on your patience as +all that. I hope the secret will be out in a month. The +thistledown, what should you say if I should tell you that Miss +Lucy and I are going to be married?"</p> + +<p>Polly sat up straight, her eyes round with astonishment.</p> + +<p>"Truly?" she cried.</p> + +<p>"Truly!" he nodded.</p> + +<p>"Why-ee! I never thought as you like Miss Lucy very much! You +acted just as if you like High Price better!"</p> + +<p>The Doctor's shoulders shook with soft laughter.</p> + +<p>"And won't Miss Lucy be nurse up in the ward any more?" Poly +queried.</p> + +<p>"Not after we are married. We are going to housekeeping. You +know the little brown cottage just beyond Colonel Gresham's?"</p> + +<p>"The one with vines all over the piazzas?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. That is to be our home."</p> + +<p>Polly had dropped back on the Doctor's shoulder, and he, absorbed +in his happy dreams, did not look down to note the shadow that +suddenly swept all joy from the little face. When she spoke +again, it was the tone rather than the words that brought him to +himself with a pang of compunction.</p> + +<p>"That—won't be so very far away," she faltered.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Polly!" with a quick tightening clasp, "you did n't suppose +we would leave you behind?"</p> + +<p>She glanced up in sudden wonder and hope.</p> + +<p>"Our home would n't be home without you. You are going with us, +to be our own little daughter! We have it all planned; it has +only awaited your sanction."</p> + +<p>Polly lay very still, big teardrops trickling down her cheeks.</p> + +<p>"You want to go, Thistledown?" the Doctor asked softly.</p> + +<p>"Oh," she breathed, "I don't—dare—speak, for fear—it +is n't real! It is so beautiful!" She stroked his big hand with +her slender little fingers.</p> + +<p>"It is very real," he smiled. "You need n't be afraid. We +cannot give you the splendid things that you would have with Mrs. +Jocelyn; but I can promise you all the love that any little girl +could wish for. We want to make your life so happy that you will +lose sight of troublesome times that have gone before."</p> + +<p>"I could n't help being happy with you and Miss Lucy." And Polly +suddenly sprang up, flinging her arms around the Doctor's neck, +and resting her cheek against his with almost a sob. "Oh, I wish +mamma knew!" she whispered. "Do you s'pose she does?"</p> + +<p>"We will surely hope so," he answered. "It seems to me that +Haven is nearer than some people believe."</p> + +<p>"It would make her so happy," Polly went on. "I do wish you +could have known mamma. She was such a dear!"</p> + +<p>"I am glad to have so close a friendship with her little +daughter," smiled the Doctor.</p> + +<p>Light raps at the door made Polly slip to her feet, and sent Dr. +Dudley across the room. Polly hurriedly brushed away the only +remaining tear, and looked up to greet Miss Hortensia Price.</p> + +<p>The nurse had come to talk with Dr. Dudley about a patient, and +Polly went over to the couch, and searched among the parcels for a +certain package. Her fingers trembled with joyous excitement. +The world had suddenly turned rose color. Every sorrow had flown +away. Even the grief which had been ever present with her for +nearly three years was for the moment swallowed up in the joy of +believing that mamma knew! She came upon the package she sought, +examined it carefully to make sure that it was the right one, and +then went, a little shyly, to Miss Price. She waited for Dr. +Dudley stopped talking.</p> + +<p>The lady received the holiday-attired parcel with a surprised +look.</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Jocelyn bought some presents," explained Polly, "for me to +give to my friends, a I chose Robert Browning's 'Poems' for you. +I hope you'll like it."</p> + +<p>"Like it! Why, you dear child!" Miss Price dropped the book in +her lap, and caught Polly's hands in hers. "How did you ever +guess that Browning is my favorite poet?"</p> + +<p>"You said so, one day, when we were playing Authors, up in the +ward."</p> + +<p>"And you remembered!" She began untying the ribbon. "I was +thinking only yesterday that I must have a copy."</p> + +<p>The volume was richly bound, and beautiful with illustrations. +Miss Price fingered it with the caressing tough of a booklover. +If her thanks were a bit conventional, Polly knew that back of +them lay real gratitude and appreciation.</p> + +<p>The little girl went back to her parcels with an added gladness. +She began piling them on her arm.</p> + +<p>"Don't carry too many," warned Dr. Dudley. "I'll take them up +for you."</p> + +<p>"I will bring some along when I come." Promised Miss Price.</p> + +<p>So Polly put back all but two dolls and a few small packages, and +started upstairs humming softly a gay little air.</p> + +<p>Presently the song was hushed by happy thoughts. To think of +living in a dear little cottage, all alone with Miss Lucy and Dr. +Dudley! To sit down at the table, three times a day, with them +both! And at bedtime! There was never room for jealousy in +Polly's heart; but sometimes when Miss Lucy cuddled the little +ones in her arms, her mother-hungry should felt starved out of its +rightful food. And now!—she could almost feel the dear arms +around her! She stopped halfway up the second flight, and bent +her head reverently.</p> + +<p>"O Lord Jesus, I think thee!" she whispered. "Please let mamma +know how beautiful it is going to be! For Thy Name's sake. +Amen."</p> + +<p>The door of the ward was open; but so light were her footfalls +that she stood on the threshold a moment before being noticed. +Then came a shout and a rush and such frantic huggings that Polly +and her parcels seemed in danger of coming to sorrow.</p> + +<p>"That is for Stella," Polly finally managed to say, freeing a +hand long enough to pass the box over one or two heads to the +little girl beyond.</p> + +<p>This turned the attention in Stella Pope's direction, and Polly +hastened down the room to a cot where a little girl lay, her big +blue eyes staring out in line with her pillow, taking no note of +the commotion going on behind her.</p> + +<p>"Trotty, see what I've brought you!" was Polly's cheery +greeting.</p> + +<p>The little four-year-old turned slightly, with a wavering smile. +She was a strange wisp of a girl, and Polly was not in the least +disappointed when she made no answer, only watched the fingers +that were untying the bright ribbon.</p> + +<p>"Now—what do you s'pose?" smiled Polly, staying the cover a +moment to make the gift of more effect.</p> + +<p>There was look of expectancy on the midget's face. A word of joy +broke from her lips.</p> + +<p>Polly laid the beautiful doll in her arms, smiling to see the +rapture in the big blue eyes.</p> + +<p>Then a wee shadow crept over. "Mine? All mine?" questioned the +tiny one.</p> + +<p>"Yes, all yours," was the sure answer. "Is n't it a darling?"</p> + +<p>Trotty did not speak, but hugged the new baby to her heart in a +way that left no doubt. Polly wished that Mrs. Jocelyn were there +to see.</p> + +<p>After the other smaller packages had been left with the several +patients for whom they were marked, Polly said, in a voice that +carried to all the cots:—</p> + +<p>"This is n't all. There is something for everybody; but I could +n't bring so many. Dr. Dudley and miss Price are coming up with +the rest."</p> + +<p>They started a babel of joyous questioning; but Polly was +responsive and patient, and altogether so satisfactory, that the +little sick people settled back on their pillows in supreme +content, to await the coming of their presents.</p> + +<p>The others had heard, too, and pressed about Polly with eager +talk.</p> + +<p>"I chose a doll for every girl that has n't any," she told them +gaily, "and I got just as pretty ones as there were in the +store."</p> + +<p>"Say, what colored hair has mine?" questioned Mabel.</p> + +<p>"Light, like Stella's, I think."</p> + +<p>"Oh, goody!" squealed the little maid. "And is it curly?"</p> + +<p>Polly nodded.</p> + +<p>"Wha' d' yer buy for Leonora?" queried a curious one.</p> + +<p>Polly threw a bright smile across to her friend, while she +answered merrily:—</p> + +<p>"You wait! It's something pretty."</p> + +<p>"I guess Polly's had an awful good time," observed thoughtful +Mary Pender; "she's so full of fun."</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy, entering the ward at the moment, overheard the remark, +as her eyes met Polly's.</p> + +<p>The little girl waived a reply, and ran over to greet the nurse.</p> + +<p>"Is Mary right?" Miss Lucy smiled.</p> + +<p>Polly hesitated, growing grave. Then her eyes danced +mischievously. "Just about right," she answered softly. "It was +'good' and 'awful' both. But I had a lovely time with Dr. Dudley +after I came home—lovely!"</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy sent a quick searching glance into the happy eyes, and +they fell before it. Polly feared she had told too much. But no, +she reasoned, because the secret was also Miss Lucy's. She looked +up again half shyly. The nurse's cheeks were very pink, and her +lips were smiling.</p> + +<p>"Precious child!" she murmured; and then she kissed her, a bit +of favoritism which she seldom allowed herself. But there was now +an excuse. Polly had been away.</p> + +<p>Shortly afterwards Miss Hortensia Price and the Doctor appeared, +laden with happiness for the ward. The dignified nurse seemed in +a holiday mood, to match her ribboned armful, and she remained to +see the delight of the children, as they unwrapped their presents.</p> + +<p>Leonora lingered over the untying of her box, as if reluctant to +risk the pretty flowered bit of pasteboard for what lay within. +Polly went across to where she sat.</p> + +<p>"I'm waiting to know how you like it," she smiled.</p> + +<p>Leonora finally lifted the cover, and her long-drawn, "O-h!" of +surprise and joy was enough for the donor.</p> + +<p>"It is just like mine," Polly explained, "only mine is +forget-me-nots on pale blue."</p> + +<p>"That must be lovely," said Leonora; "but I like this best for +me—it don't seem as if it could be for me!"</p> + +<p>She carefully raised an end of the broad white sash ribbon, and +sighed rapturously over the beautiful pink rosebuds scattered +along its length.</p> + +<p>"That is exquisite," agreed Miss Price, coming to her side. +"Pink is exactly the color for you. Polly has shown excellent +taste in its selection."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Polly always knows just what's right!" praised Leonora.</p> + +<p>Miss Price did not reply, only smiled across to Polly in the +friendliest way.</p> + +<p>"Is n't High Price lovely this afternoon!" whispered the lame +girl, as the tall nurse turned to admire a doll which was help up +for her inspection.</p> + +<p>Polly nodded happily. Everything was "lovely" now. What a +glad, beautiful world it was!</p> + +<p>"My dear!" A pair of soft arms clasped her from behind, and +Polly found herself looking up into Miss Lucy's radiant face. "I +believe you are a little witch!" she laughed "You have given me +just such a bag as I have coveted for a good many years, but which +I never expected to won."</p> + +<p>"I'm so glad!" responded Poly. "But Mrs. Jocelyn chose it— +the kind, I mean."</p> + +<p>She might have added that she should never have dared select on at +that price; but she only smiled joyously.</p> + +<p>"Then I will thank you and Mrs. Jocelyn both," smiled Miss Lucy, +moving away with the other nurse.</p> + +<p>"Was n't it nice of her to buy all these things for you to give +us!" said Leonora happily.</p> + +<p>Polly's response was sober. She could not quite forget how sorry +the dear little lady would be when she heard what had been +decided. But her seriousness soon gave place to laughter. The +ward was in too merry a mood to allow aught but mirth within its +walls.</p> + +<a name="ILL-4"></a> +<center> +<a href="images/document.jpg"> +<img src="images/document.jpg" width=360 border=0 +alt="This Document Makes You Legally Our Own Daughter"></a> +</center> +<br> +<br> +<br> +<a name="17"></a> +<br> +<br> +<center> +<h2>Chapter XVII<br> +<br> +The Wedding</h2> +</center> +<br> +<p> +The next morning David called for Polly on his way to school, and +the two went off together, the children waving good-byes from the +windows. They returned, at noon, in love with their teachers, in +love with the scholars, in love with their new books and all +pertaining to the school. Such funny, interesting things had +happened, and Polly told about them all dinner time.</p> + +<p>Leonora watched her two friends go back in the afternoon, feeling +a little sad. If only she could go, too! But she was growing +well and strong; Dr. Dudley had assured her that she would soon be +able to run about like other girls. The sadness, after all, ended +in a long breath of joy.</p> + +<p>The weeks before the secret came out where very happy weeks for +Polly. Only a ew days after her visit to Mrs. Jocelyn came a +package, a large, flat, nearly square package. It arrived while +she was at school, and she found the children eyeing it curiously +as it lay on Miss Lucy's desk.</p> + +<p>"It's for you," announced Stella, "and she said there must n't +anybody touch it. She would n't open it herself."</p> + +<p>Polly looked at the white parcel, and wondered, too. She had been +expecting photographs; but this was too big for those, she +decided. Hastily she untied the string. Miss Lucy came in just +as she turned back the wrapper.</p> + +<p>"O-h!"</p> + +<p>"Why, Polly May, you've gone and had your picture taken!"</p> + +<p>"My! Ain't it splendid?"</p> + +<p>"Whew! Bet that cost somethin'!"</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy caught a glimpse of the photograph, which brought her +quickly across the room.</p> + +<p>"Polly dear, what a surprise this is!"</p> + +<p>"I don't think it looks much like me," murmured the little girl, +staring wonderingly and the beautiful picture.</p> + +<p>It was of large size, exquisitely finished in carbon, and mounted +in a handsome folder.</p> + +<p>"Why, it looks exactly like her! Don't it, Miss Lucy?" queried +Mabel.</p> + +<p>"I think I never saw a better likeness," smiled the nurse.</p> + +<p>"There!" exulted Mabel. "Say, what made you think it did n't?"</p> + +<p>But Polly only laughed a little uncertainly. "Never mind, if you +like it!" she told them.</p> + +<p>"Oh, here's another kind!" piped Stella, whose curious fingers +had discovered a photograph showing Polly in a different pose.</p> + +<p>This was full-length; the other was only head and shoulders.</p> + +<p>"There's one more, I think," said Polly, "where I had some +flowers in my hand."</p> + +<p>A hunt soon revealed it,—"the very sweetest of all!" Leonora +declared.</p> + +<p>The girls hung over it rapturously.</p> + +<p>"Will you give me one?" begged Mabel.</p> + +<p>"And me"—"And me?"—"And me?" chorused the others.</p> + +<p>"Polly cannot tell right off just what she will be able to do," +interposed Miss Lucy. "Dr. Dudley has n't seen them yet. Suppose +you run down and show them to him, Polly."</p> + +<p>Down the stairs skipped Polly, glad to get away from the too eager +children.</p> + +<p>The Doctor received them delightedly. Polly watched him with +thoughtful eyes.</p> + +<p>"Do you think they look like me?" she ventured at last.</p> + +<p>"Very much," he answered, smiling at the anxious pucker between +Polly's eyebrows. "What is the trouble?"</p> + +<p>The pink in her cheeks deepened to crimson. "I am not—so +pretty as that," she faltered. "You know I'm not. And I hate to +give away such pictures. It seems as if folks would think I +wanted to make out I looked better than I really do."</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley's eyes were bent to the photograph in hand. He thought +hard and fast. Should he tell her the truth,—that the +beautiful black-and-white print, with all its exquisite softness, +scarcely did justice to the delicate mobile face?</p> + +<p>"I wanted you and Miss Lucy to have one," she went on, "and +Colonel Gresham, and David, and High Price, and Leonora, and +Cornelius—for he was so good to get my locket back. Then the +rest of them—there are a dozen—I thought I'd give to +anybody that wanted one; but now—" she halted appealingly.</p> + +<p>"Well, if I were you, Thistledown," and the Doctor threw his arm +in a comradely way across the slim shoulders, "I should go +straight along and give my pictures to those for whom I had +intended them, with no thought about any lack of resemblance. You +sat for the photographs, and you are not to blame for any possible +mistake the camera may have made; so don't let it bother you."</p> + +<p>She gave a little gleeful chuckle. "It is the camera's fault, is +n't it? I never thought of that. Well, if you think it's all +right to give them away, it must be; but it did n't seem quite— +hones, you know." She looked up still a bit anxious.</p> + +<p>The Doctor smoothed away the tiny wrinkle on her forehead, and +smiled down into the clear brown eyes.</p> + +<p>"It is perfectly right, Polly; in fact, it would be wrong to +spoil so much pleasure for such a little reason. The pictures are +far more lifelike than most people's are, and nobody will stop to +compare them with the original, feature by feature."</p> + +<p>"No, I guess they won't," she laughed. "You pick out the one you +want to keep, and next I'll let Miss Lucy choose."</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley watched her, as she danced away happily up the stairs. +The he studied the photograph before him, doing exactly what he +had assured her that no one would think of doing; but his final +judgment, like his first intuition, was not in favor of the print.</p> + +<p>The simplest of church weddings had been planned by the two most +closely concerned, for neither had other home than the hospital; +but Mrs. Jocelyn overthrew plans and arguments together.</p> + +<p>"What is my big house good for," she demanded, "if it cannot be +useful at a time like this? You shall come and make it merry once +more in its old life!"</p> + +<p>She ended by carrying off Miss Lucy for a whole week before the +appointed day, and the hospital had to hustle another nurse into +the ward which was both sorrowful and glad.</p> + +<p>That was a week of happy upsetting for the stately old mansion. +Carpenters, electricians, florists, and tradespeople of various +classes, all joined in the joyous whirl. Dr. Dudley and Polly +whizzed back and forth in the automobile, and the dignified grays +were kept trotting to and from the house at all hours of the day +and evening.</p> + +<p>It had been early arranged for Polly and Leonora to remain with +Mrs. Jocelyn for the two weeks that the Doctor and his wife were +to be away on their wedding journey, and the little lame girl, who +now had only the tiniest limp, was in alternate rapture and +dismay.</p> + +<p>"To think" she would exclaim, squeezing Polly ecstatically, "of +<i>me</i> being in that splendid house, with you and that beautiful +Mrs. Jocelyn for fourteen whole days! But, oh, mercy!" she would +cry, "I'm dreadfully afraid she'll not want me so long! I shall +be sure to say or do something wrong! I'm not used to grand folks +like her;" and joy would end with a sigh.</p> + +<p>Thin it was Polly's part to reassure her with laughing words, +until the delight would come back to crowd out all fears.</p> + +<p>One large room in the house on Edgewood Avenue had been reserved +for the wedding presents, and, although Miss Lucy had jestingly +remarked that a little hall chamber was more than would be needed, +the apartment was packed with love tokens long in advance of the +day. Both the nurse and the physician had won many friends in +their years of hospital service, and now all seemed anxious to +show honor to these two who had helped to add length and comfort +to their lives.</p> + +<p>One morning, just before starting for Mrs. Jocelyn's, Dr. Dudley +read this note to Polly:—</p> + + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + My Dear Doctor,—<br> + <br> + + I have been wondering, ever since I heard + Your good news, how Polly was going to ride, + Inasmuch as two fill your runabout. I have + Too much consideration for the lady who will + Sit by your side to wish her always to bear + The burden of Polly's weight; so I have ordered + for you a car that will seat five without + crowding. There is a place ready for it in my + carriage house. That won't be far for you to + come, and it will be handier for me whenever + Lone Star goes lame.<br> + <br> + + + + + Your sincere friend,<br> + <br> + + + + + + + GRESHAM.<br> + <br> + + Lucky for me I happened to think of this, + For it would get on my nerves to see Polly + Hanging on behind every time you and Mrs. + Dudley went to ride.<br> + + + + + + + D. G.<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + +<p>"What a funny man!": laughed Polly. "You'd think Lone Star went +lame about once a week! But is n't that a lovelicious present— +a big auto!—my!"</p> + +<p>"It is too much." Dr. Dudley shook his head gravely.</p> + +<p>"Why, he loves to do it for you," argued Polly. "Besides, it is +not just for you," she chuckled; "it is so he won't have to see +me sitting is Miss Lucy's lap or 'hanging on behind'! Would n't +that look funny?"</p> + +<p>The Doctor laughed, and put the note in his pocket.</p> + +<p>At Mrs. Jocelyn's, Miss Lucy met them at the entrance.</p> + +<p>"I'm so glad you've come," she cried. "I was wishing you would, +to see what Colonel Gresham has sent me."</p> + +<p>"Why—" began Polly, and then stopped, blushing at having +almost told about the new motor car. That was not hers to speak +of first.</p> + +<p>Dr. Dudley sent a swift glance of appreciation in her direction, +and followed Miss Lucy's leading.</p> + +<p>"That came for you, Polly, at the same time," she said, handing +the girl a small square package. "A man just brought them."</p> + +<p>"For me?" Polly's eyes opened wide. "I'm not going to be +married!"</p> + +<p>They laughed, while the young lady displayed her gift, a necklace +of pearls.</p> + +<p>"Oh, is n't that lovely!" exclaimed Polly.</p> + +<p>"How sweet you will look I nit! Do put it on!"</p> + +<p>But Miss Lucy declared that pearls and gingham dresses were not +companionable, and the necklace was returned to its satin case.</p> + +<p>"Why don't you undo your package?" inquired Mrs. Jocelyn.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I forgot!" cried Polly, in sudden compunction. "Those +beautiful pearls put everything out of my head."</p> + +<p>She soon had the wrappings off, disclosing a small leather case.</p> + +<p>"What can it be?" she breathed. "Oh, you darling!" gazing +delightedly at an exquisite little watch. She caressed it with +excited fingers. "Why, there's something engraved in here!" as +the case flew open, and turning to the light, she read aloud:—</p> + + +<br> +<blockquote><blockquote> + + To Polly of the Hospital Staff, in remembrance + Of a stormy midnight and a sunshiny morning, from + her devoted lover,<br> + + + + + + + DAVID GRESHAM.<br> +</blockquote></blockquote> +<br> + +<p>"And here's something more," she went on, scowling in a puzzled +way over the quotation. "It says, 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' +I don't see what that's for, do you?"</p> + +<p>The others smiled comprehendingly.</p> + +<p>"Why, dearest," explained Mrs. Jocelyn, "you know you brought +the Colonel and his niece together."</p> + +<p>"Oh, no, I did n't do it!" protested Polly.</p> + +<p>"I wonder who did," the little lady laughed.</p> + +<p>Miss Lucy was reading the Colonel's note, which Dr. Dudley had +given her. She ended it with a silent chuckle, and the Doctor +passed it over to Mrs. Jocelyn.</p> + +<p>"Just like David!" the little lady declared. "He enjoys a bit of +quiet fun as well as any man I ever knew."</p> + +<p>Polly had gone back to her present, hanging over it in delight.</p> + +<p>"It is just the right kind of watch for a little girl like you," +admired the Doctor; "neither too large nor too ornamental."</p> + +<p>"It is beautiful!" sighed Polly rapturously. "Is n't Colonel +Gresham nice to give it to me?"</p> + +<p>The Doctor smiled an emphatic "Yes," which rejoiced Polly's +heart. She had been afraid he would shake his head, as he had +shaken it over the touring-car. In that case, she reasoned +conscientiously, she should have felt as if she ought to give back +her watch.</p> + +<p>It was a six-o'clock wedding. The bridal procession formed at the +foot of the stairs in the spacious hallway, marching its length, +and then proceeding through the east drawing-room to the library, +where the ceremony took place under a canopy of roses. A troop of +children attended the ride, children to whom, as nurse of the +convalescent ward, she had at some time ministered. The girls, +two and two, gowned in silken chiffon of harmonious colors, had +each a basket heaped with blossoms. Polly and Leonora came last +of all, both in delicate pink, from the ribbons that bound their +hair to the tops of their kid slippers, Leonora's black braids in +happy contrast with Polly's fair curls. The boys, clad as pages, +ranged, at regular intervals, on either side of the long line, +carried light arches of vines and flowers, making a fragrant arbor +for the others to walk under.</p> + +<p>The brief service over, the flower girls strewed roses in the path +of the bridal pair all the way to the great west drawing-room.</p> + +<p>It was like a queen's pageant in a vision of fairyland. The +myriad lights, the gaily dressed children, the lavish profusion of +flowers, the soft music floating from a bank of ferns,—all +united to make the scene unusually dreamlike and beautiful.</p> + +<p>As the bride stood to receive her guests, in her simple white silk +gown, the necklace of pearly her only ornament, Polly gazed into +her sweet, thoughtful face, and longed to throw her arms around +her neck and give her a loving hug. But she had to be content +with only one little decorous kiss, and she consoled herself with +the words that had been singing in her heart all the day, "She is +going to be my mother! She is going to be my mother!"</p> + +<p>There were many guests, and it was long before the bride and groom +were free from hand-shaking. Polly only caught glimpses now and +then of the two she loved best. She was with a group of merry +children, when she heard her name softly called. Turning, she saw +Dr. Dudley in the doorway. She ran to him, and he led her into +the library, where his bride was talking with Mr. Brewster, the +lawyer.</p> + +<p>Mrs. Dudley drew her down beside her on the divan, and Mr. +Brewster soon took leave of them. The Doctor seated himself on her +right.</p> + +<p>"This document," he smiled, tapping lightly the paper in his +hand, "makes you legally our own daughter. We have just signed +it, for we wanted everything settled before going away."</p> + +<p>With a quick, graceful gesture, Polly wound an arm around each +neck.</p> + +<p>"My dear new father and mother," she whispered solemnly, as if +it were a prayer, "I will be just as good, always, as I know how +to be, so you won't ever be sorry you made me your own little +girl!"</p> +<br> +<br> +<br> + +<hr noshade> +<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF***</p> +<p>******* This file should be named 15971-h.txt or 15971-h.zip *******</p> +<p>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:<br /> +<a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/5/9/7/15971">https://www.gutenberg.org/1/5/9/7/15971</a></p> +<p>Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed.</p> + +<p>Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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Dowd, +Illustrated by Irma Deremeaux + + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + + + + +Title: Polly of the Hospital Staff + + +Author: Emma C. Dowd + +Release Date: June 3, 2005 [eBook #15971] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) + + +***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF*** + + +E-text prepared by David Conant + + + +Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this + file which includes the original illustrations. + See 15971-h.htm or 15971-h.zip: + (https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/5/9/7/15971/15971-h/15971-h.htm) + or + (https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/5/9/7/15971/15971-h.zip) + + + + + +POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF + +by + +EMMA C. DOWD + +Boston and New York +Houghton Mifflin Company +The Riverside Press Cambridge + +1912 + + + + + + + +To 'The Mother of Polly' + + +Contents + + I. The Cherry-Pudding Story + II. The Election of Polly + III. Popover + IV. David + V. With the Assistance of Lone Star + VI. Elsie's Birthday + VII. The Little Sad Lady + VIII. A Warning From Aunt Jane + IX. A Night of Song + X. The Ward's Anniversary + XI. Polly Plays the part of Eva + XII. The Kidnapping of Polly + XIII. The Return + XIV. Polly's "Anne Sisters" + XV. A Bid for Polly + XVI. A secret + XVII. The Wedding + + + +Illustrations + + The Story of the Wonderful White Flower + "Once Upon a Time," she began + Forgetting all but the music she loved + This Document Makes You Legally our own Daughter + + From drawings by Irma Deremeaux + + + + +POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF + + + +Chapter I + +The Cherry-Pudding Story + +The June breeze hurried up from the harbor to the big house on the +hill, and fluttered playfully past the window vines into the +children's convalescent ward. It was a common saying at the +hospital that the tidal breeze always reached the children's ward +first. Sometimes the little people were waiting for it, ready +with their welcome; but to-day there were none to laugh a +greeting. The room was very quiet. The occupants of the little +white cots had slept unusually long, and the few that had awakened +from their afternoon naps were still too drowsy to be astir. +Besides, Polly was not there, and the ward was never the same +without Polly. + +As the young nurse in charge passed noiselessly between the rows +of beds, a small hand pulled at her apron. + +"Ain't it 'most time for Polly to come?" + +"Yes, I think she will be back pretty soon now." Miss Lucy +smiled down into the wistful little face. + +"I want Polly to tell me a story," Elsie went on, with a bit of +a whine: "my hip aches so bad." + +"Does it feel worse to-day?" asked the nurse sympathetically. + +"No; I guess not," answered the little girl, glad of a listener. +"It aches all the time, 'cept when I'm asleep or Polly's tellin' +stories." + +"I know," and Miss Lucy's face grew grave. "We shall miss +Polly." + +"When's she goin' home?" The blue eyes went suddenly anxious. + +"Oh, not until next week!" was the cheerful response. "There'll +be time for plenty of stories before then." + +"A-h-h!" wailed little French Aimee, from the opposite cot. +"Pollee go?" + +"Why, yes," smiled Miss Lucy, with a quick turn. "Polly is +almost well, and well little girls don't stay at the hospital, you +know. Pretty soon you will go home, too." + +The nurse passed on, but Aimee's face remained clouded. Next +week--no Pollee! + +Other ears besides Aimee's had overheard the news about Polly. +Maggie O'Donnell and Otto Kriloff stared at each other in dismay. +Why, Polly had been there long before they came! It had never +occurred to them that Polly could leave. + +When Miss Lucy reached Maggie's bed, the little girl was softly +crying. + +"I--don't--want--Polly to go!" she sobbed. + +"Dear me! Dear me!" exclaimed the nurse, "this will never do!" +Then, listening, she whispered, "Hark! Who is that skipping along +the hall?" + +At the instant, the door opened, and a little girl, her brown eyes +shining with pleasure, her cheeks pink as the poppies on the front +lawn, and her yellow curls all tossed and tumbled by the wind, +whirled into the ward. + +"Oh, Polly!" passed, a breath of joy, from lip to lip. + +"I've had a lovelicious time!" she began. + +"We went 'way down to Rockmoor!--Did you ever ride in an auto, +Miss Lucy?" + +The nurse nodded happily. It was good to have Polly back. + +"Seems's if you'd never come!" broke out Elsie Meyer. "I've been +waitin' an' waitin' for a story." + +"I'll have my things off in a minute," responded Polly, "and +you'll say my story is worth waiting for." + +"A new one?" + +"Brand-new!" + +"Where'd you get it?" + +"A lady told me--a lady Dr. Dudley took me to see. It's a +'Cherry-Pudding Story.'--Oh, you just wait till I put my coat +and hat away, and change my dress!" Polly danced off, the young +nurse following with a soft sigh. What should she do without this +little sunshine-maker! + +The ward was wide awake when Polly returned. The few that were +far enough along to be up and dressed had left their cots, and +were grouped around Elsie Meyer's bed, each solicitous for the +closest seat to the story-teller. + +"Everybody ready?" questioned Polly, settling herself +comfortable in the little rocker. Then she popped up. "You need +this chair, Leonora, more than I do;" and before the lame girl +had time to protest the exchange had been made. + +"Polly, talk loud, so I can hear!" piped up a shrill voice in +the corner of the ward. + +"Sure I will, Linus," was the cherry response. "You must n't +miss a word of the 'Cherry-Pudding story.'" + +"Once upon a time," she began, in the beautiful old way that all +fanciful stories should begin; and not the breath of a rustle +broke the sound of her gentle voice, while she narrated the +fortunes of the young king who loved stories so much that he +decided to wed only the girl that would write him a fresh one +every day. + +As the little people followed the outcome of the royal edict, +their interest grew intense, for Polly was a real story-teller, +sweeping her listeners along with the narrative until all else was +forgotten. + +When after long despairing days, young King Cerise found his +future queen in the very last girl, one who lived her stories +instead of writing them, and was as charming and good as she was +clever, the small folks became radiantly glad, and the tale drew +to a happy end with the king and queen living beautiful stories +and cherry puddings in every home all over the land. + +Nobody spoke as Polly stopped. Then little Linus, away over in +the corner, piped up:-- + +"I wasn't some cherry pudding!" + +Than made them laugh, and set the tongues going. + +"Aw, ye'll have ter wait till ye git home!" returned Cornelius +O'Shaughnessy. + +"Why will he? Why can't we all have some, Miss Lucy?" + +The rest fairly held their breath at Elsie Meyer's boldness. + +The nurse laughed. "Perhaps," she began slowly,--"mind, I +don't say for sure, but only perhaps,--if you'll all live a +brave, patient, cheerful story, with never a bit of a whine in it, +from now until to-morrow noon,--well, who knows what may +happen!" + +"A cherry pudding may!" cried the irrepressible Elsie. "Oh, Miss +Lucy, I won't whine or cry, no matter how bad you hurt my hip when +you dress it--not the teentiest bit! See if I do!" + +"Will Polly make up our stories for us?" queried Leonora Hewitt. + +"Why, Miss Lucy has made one for all of us," laughed Polly. "We +are to be brave and patient and not make a fuss about anything, +and help everybody else to be happy--is n't that what you +meant, Miss Lucy?" + +"Oh," replied the little lame girl, "guess that'll be a hard +kind!" + +"Beautiful stories are not often easy to live," smiled the young +nurse; "but let's see which of us can live the best one." + +"Polly will!" cried Maggie O'Donnell and Otto Kriloff together. + + + +Chapter II + +The Election of Polly + +The convalescent ward was finishing its noonday feast when Miss +Hortensia Price appeared. Miss Hortensia Price was straight and +tall, with somber black eyes and thin, serious lips. Many of the +children were greatly in awe of the dignified nurse; but Elsie +Meyer was bold enough to announce:-- + +"We're livin' a cherry-pudding story!" And she beamed up from +her ruby-colored plate. + +"What?" scowled the visitor. + +The tone was puzzled rather tan harsh, yet Elsie shrank back in +sudden abashment. + +"Polly told us a story yesterday," explained Miss Lucy, the pink +deepening on her delicate cheeks, "and it made the children want +some cherry pudding for dinner. It is not rich," she added +apologetically. + +The elder nurse responded only with a courteous "Oh!" and then +remarked, "What I came down to say is this: I shall send you +three cases from my ward at half-past two o'clock this afternoon." + +"All right," was the cordial answer. "We shall be glad to +welcome them to our little family." + +"High Price is awful solemn to-day," whispered Maggie O'Donnell +to Ethel Jones, as the door shut. + +"High Price?" repeated Ethel, in a perplexed voice. + +"Sh!" breathed the other. "She's 'High Price,' and Miss Lucy's +'Low Price,' 'cause she's so high and mighty and tall and +everything, and Miss Lucy's kind o' short and little and so +darling, and they ain't any relation either. I'm glad they +ain't," she added decidedly. "I would n't have Miss Lucy related +to her for anything!" + +"Oh, no!" returned Ethel, comprehendingly, as she scraped her +plate for a last morsel of pudding. + +The three "cases," which appeared in the convalescent ward +promptly at the hour named, proved to be two girls and a boy,-- +Brida MacCarthy, Isabel Smith, and Moses Cohn. Polly did her +share in routing the evident fears of the small strangers, their +wide, anxious eye showing that they dreaded what might lie ahead +of them in these unknown quarters. + +The wonderful giant story, which ended merrily,--as all of +Polly's stories did end,--made Moses her valiant follower as +long as he remained in the ward; the tender little slumber song, +which Polly's mother had taught her, put the tiny Isabel to sleep; +and the verses about the "Kit-Cat Luncheon" completely won the +heart of Irish Brida. + +"I got a kitty, too!" she confided. "Her name's Popover, 'cause +when the kitties was all little, an' runnin' round, an' playin', +she'd pop right over on her back, jus' as funny! She's all black +concept[sic] a little spot o' white--oh, me kitty is the +prettiest kitty in town!" + +"How shall I ever get along without her!" sighed the young +nurse, as she watched Polly flitting about like a sprite, +comforting restless little patients, hushing, with her ready tact, +quarrelsome tongues, and winning every heart by her gentle, loving +ways. Oh, the ward would be lonely indeed without Polly May! +None realized this more than Miss Lucy, unless it were Dr. Dudley, +the cherry house physician, whom all the children adored. + +As the day set for Polly's going came near and nearer, the +mourning of the small convalescents increased, until the ward +would have been in danger of continual tears if it had not been +for Polly herself. She was gayer than ever, telling the funniest +stories and singing the merriest songs, and making her little +friends half forget that the good times were not going to last. +The children never guessed that this was almost as much to help +herself over the hard place as to cheer them. In fact, they +believed that her unusual high spirits came of her being glad to +leave the hospital. Even Miss Lucy could n't quite understand it +all. But Dr. Dudley knew; he had seen her face when she had been +told that she was soon to go. + +It was not strange that Polly should dread parting from the people +with whom she had been so happy, for no mother or father or +pleasant home was waiting for her,--only Aunt Jane, in the +cramped, dingy little tenement,--Aunt Jane and her six unruly +girls and boys. Poly did not permit herself to think much about +going away, however, and the last evening found her cheerful +still. Then Elsie Meyer began her doleful suggestions. + +"I wonder how often your Aunt Jane 'll let you come and see us. +P'r'aps she won't let you come at all--oh, my! If she don't, +maybe we'll never see you again!" + +"Nonsense, Elsie! Don't go to conjuring up any such thing!" +broke in Miss Lucy's laughing voice. "Of course--why, Polly!" +For the little girl had been brought suddenly face to face with an +awful possibility, and her courage had given way. She was sobbing +on the foot of Elsie's bed. + +A low rap on the half-open door sent Miss Lucy thither, and Polly +heard Dr. Dudley speak her name. A new terror took instant +possession of her heart. The Doctor had come to take her home! +She did not stop to reason. Dropping to the floor, she crept +softly under the cot, from there to the next and the next. Her +course was straight to the door through which the physician had +entered, and by the time he was halfway across the room she had +wriggled herself clear of the last cot, and was over the sill and +in the corridor, the twilight aiding her escape. Regaining her +feet, she darted noiselessly down the long hall. At the head of +the stairs she paused. On the floor below was a small alcove +where she might hide. Making sure that no one was in sight, she +sped down, but as she reached the lower step one of the nurses +opened the door opposite. + +"What are you doing down here, Polly May?" + +The question was pleasant, but the answer was miserably halting. + +"I--I--thought--I'd just--come--" + +"Did Miss Price send you for anything?" + +This time the child detected a ring of suspicion. + +"Oh, no! I--I--" + +"Well, you'd better go right back. It is too late to be running +around for play. The halls must be kept quiet." + +"Yes, Miss Bemont," responded Polly meekly, and turned to see +Dr. Dudley at the head of the flight. + +There was nothing to do but to go forward, which she did, with +downcast eyes and a throbbing heart. + +"Oh, here you are!" exclaimed the physician. "I've been looking +for you. I thought you would like to take a ride up to +Warringford. I shall be back before your bedtime, and Miss Lucy +says--why, Thistledown! What is the matter?" + +The revulsion had been to great, and, leaning against the Doctor's +arm, Polly was softly sobbing. + +The physician sat down on the stairs, and drew the fair little +head to his shoulder. In a minute he knew it all,--the sudden +fear that had assailed her, the creeping flight across the ward, +and the baffled attempt at hiding. As he listened, his eyes grew +grave and tender, for in the broken little confession he +comprehended the child's unspoken abhorrence of the life she had +left behind when she had come to the hospital five months before. + +"I would n't worry about going back to Aunt Jane's," he said +brightly. "You may be sure I shan't let her monopolize my little +Polly. Now, run along and get on your hat and coat, for the air is +growing cool. We'll have a nice spin up to Warringford, and +you'll sleep all the better for it." + +Polly skipped away smiling, but presently was down in the office, +--without her wraps. + +"The children feel so bad to have me go," she said soberly, "I +guess I'd better stay with them--seeing it's the last night." +Her lip quivered. + +"Selfish little pigs!" returned the Doctor. "They are n't +willing anybody else shall have a taste of you." + +Polly laughed. "Well, they want me to tell them a story, so I'd +better, don't you think?" + +"I suppose it's kinder to them than to go for a joy ride; but +it's hard on me." + +Dr. Dudley assumed a scowl of disapproval. + +The child hesitated. "You know I'd rather go with you," she said +sweetly; "but they--" + +"I understand all about it, brave little woman," throwing an arm +around the slender shoulders, "and I won't make it any harder for +you. Go and tell your story, and let it be a merry one. +Remember, that's the Doctor's order! Good-night." + +Polly threw him a kiss from the doorway, and then he heard her +light footfalls on the stairs. + +It was one of his few leisure hours, and he sat for a long time +looking out on the quiet street, where his small motor car stood +waiting. He had no inclination for a spin to Warringford now; he +was thinking too deeply about the little girl who had held so +large a share of his big heart since the day when he had first +seen her, lying so white and still, with the life all but crushed +out of her. It had not seemed possible then that she would ever +again dance around like the other children; yet her she was, +without even the bit of a limp--and going home to-morrow! Home! +He could imagine the kind of place it was, and he shook his head +gravely over the picture. Twice in the first months of Polly's +stay at the hospital her aunt had been to visit her; recently she +had not appeared. He recollected her well,--a tall, lean +woman, with unshapely garments, and a strident voice. + +At eight o'clock Dr. Dudley cranked up his machine, and started +away; but he did not go in the direction of Warringford. He +turned down one of the narrow streets that led to Aunt Jane's +home. + +Meantime, up in the ward, Polly had been following the Doctor's +directions until the children had laughed themselves happy. + +"I did n't let on that I saw you scoot under the bed when the +Doctor came," Elsie Meyer whispered to Polly, at the first +chance. "Aimee saw you, an' Brida saw you, an' Francesca saw +you; but we did n't say nothin' when Miss Lucy an' the Doctor was +wonderin' where you could be. What made you go that way?" + +"Come, Polly, say good-night," called the nurse. + +And with a soft, "I'll tell you sometime, Elsie," she obeyed. + +The next morning Polly went about the little helpful tasks that +she had, one after another, taken upon herself, performing each +with even more than her usual care, feeling a strange ache in her +heart at the thought of its being the last time. + +It was shortly after ten o'clock that Dr. Dudley appeared at the +door. + +"Polly!" he called. + +She ran to him, but her answering smile was pathetic, for her lip +quivered, as she said, "I'll be ready in a minute." + +"You are ready now," he returned, and taking her hand in his led +her out into the hall. + +"I want you for a little while," was all he said, as they went +downstairs together. + +Poly was a bit surprised when she found that their destination was +the great room where the "Board" was in session, but she could +not be afraid with Dr. Dudley; so she smiled to all the gentlemen, +and answered their questions in her soft, sweet voice, and behaved +quite like the little lady that the physician had pictured to +them. + +Presently Dr. Dudley left her, while he talked in low tones with +the white-haired man at the head of the long table. When he came +back, he asked:-- + +"Polly, how should you like to stay here at the hospital all +summer, and help Miss Lucy and me to take care of your little +friends?" + +The light that flashed into Polly's brown eyes gave them the gleam +of a sunny brook. She clasped her small hands ecstatically, +crying, "O--o--h! it would be--super-bon-donjical!" + +The gentlemen laughed, the tall, white-haired one until his +shoulders shook. Then he rapped on the table, and said something +about "Miss Polly May," to which the little girl did n't pay +much attention, and there was a big chorus of ayes. After that +Polly bade them all good-bye, and went upstairs with Dr. Dudley. + +"Children, I have something to tell you," the physician +announced. + +Everybody was at once alert. A solemn hush fell on the ward. + +"What do you think?" he went on;--"Polly May is a full-fledged +member of the hospital staff!" + +Nobody spoke. Nobody even smiled but Miss Lucy. Black eyes and +brown eyes, blue eyes and gray eyes stared uncomprehendingly at +the Doctor. + +"You don't quite understand that, do you?" he laughed. "Well, it +means that Polly is n't going home to her aunt. Polly is going to +stay with you!" + +Then what squeals and shouts and shrieks of joy from all over the +ward! + + + +Chapter III + +Popover + +For a week the convalescent ward laughed and sang and almost +forgot that it was part of the big House of Suffering. Polly +herself beamed on everybody, and all the hospital people seemed to +agree that very good fortune had come to her, and to be glad in +it. + +Then there came a hot day which tried the patience of the small +invalids. Polly flitted from cot to cot with her little +fluttering fan and her cooling drinks. The afternoon breeze had +not yet arrived when Brida MacCarthy begged for a story. + +"It will have to be and old one," was the smiling response, for +Polly's supply of cat tales--the kind which the little Irish +girl invariably wanted--was limited. + +"I don't care what 't is," whined Brida,--"anything 'bout a +kitty. Oh, don't I wisht I had me own darlin' Popover right here +in me arms!--Why don't yer begin?" urged the fretful voice, +for Polly sat gazing at the polished floor. + +A kindly, fascinating scheme was taking shape in the story-teller's +brain. + +"Oh, Brida," she cried, in suppressed eagerness, lowering her +voice to a whisper that should not reach Miss Lucy at the other +end of the ward, "I've thought of the loveliest thing! Your home +is n't very far from here, is it?" + +"A good ways--why?" and Brida's little pale, freckled face +showed only mild interest. + +"But where do you live--when you're home?" Polly insisted. + +"'T 739 Liberty Street is right down by Union! I can find that +easy enough! Say, don't you s'pose your mother 'd let me take +Popover and bring her up here? You know Miss Lucy wants me to go +out to walk every day now." + +"Oh, Polly!" the pale face grew pink with joy. "Sure, me mother +'d let her come! Oh, Polly, if you would!" + +"I will! And I won't say a word to Miss Lucy about it till +Popover is here! It's her birthday to-day, and it'll be such a +beautiful surprise! I've been wishing and wishing we had +something to give her." + +"Oh, not me darlin' kitty!" returned Brida, in sudden dismay. + +"No, no!" laughed Polly reassuringly. "I only meant the +surprise. Popover can amuse the whole ward, and won't Miss Lucy +be pleased!" + +"It'll be splendid!" beamed Brida. "How'd yer ever think of +it?" + +"I don't know; but I'm glad I did," Polly went on happily. "And +perhaps we can keep her a week or so, if we'll let her have a +little of our milk--just you and I. You would n't mind, would +you?" + +"Sure, I'll let her have all she can drink!" declared Brida. + +"I guess I'd better go now," said Polly. "What is the number 7----" + +"It's 739 Liberty Street," repeated Brida; "an old brown house +next to the corner." + +Miss Lucy thought it was rather too warm for a walk, especially as +Polly was not very strong yet; but the little girl urged it with +such sparkling eyes that she finally let her go, bidding her keep +on the shady side of the street and not to stay out too long. + +Polly reached Liberty Street where it was crossed by Union, but +was taken somewhat aback when she looked at a number on the west +side and found it to be only 452. + +"Never mind!" was her second thought; "there are not quite three +hundred numbers more, and half of those are on the other side; +besides, they skip lots of them." + +So she walked on contentedly, keeping track of the numbers as +she passed along. They counted up fast, the houses were so +thickly set. Polly thought the occupants must all be out of +doors, for lounging men and women filled the doorways, and the +sidewalks were scattered with children. The air grew hot and +stifling and full of disagreeable odors. The little girl half +wished that she had not come. Then she remembered how pleased +Brida would be to see her kitten again, and that gave her new +strength and courage. + +She was very tired when she came to the little shop numbered 703; +but with the glad thought that the "brown house" could not be +far off she began to look for it. + +Directly across her way was stretched a jumping rope, which, as +she was about to step over, the girls at either end whirled up in +front of her. To the astonishment of the mischievous tricksters, +Polly skipped into time as adroitly as the most expert rope-jumper +could have wished, and the giggling pair almost forgot their part. +But they recovered themselves to give Polly a half-dozen skips. +Then, clearing the rope with a graceful bound, she turned to one +of the girls. + +"Can you tell me, please, where Mrs. MacCarthy lives?--Brida +MacCarthy's mother?" + +With a second surprise on her freckled face, the child pointed to a +fat, red-cheeked woman, who was cooling herself with a big palm-leaf +fan, in a basement doorway just beyond. + +"Thank you," was the polite response, and Polly descended the +short flight of steps into the bricked area. + +The woman looked up expectantly. + +"I'm Polly May, of the hospital staff," the little girl +announced modestly, "and Brida would like her kitten, please." + +The smile on Mrs. MacCarthy's face expanded into a big, joyous +laugh. + +"Does she now? Moira! Katie! D'ye here that? Brida's sint f'r her +cat! Sure an' she moost be gittin' 'long rale well! An' ye're +from th' hospital! Moira! Where's yer manners? Fetch th' little +lady a chair! Katie, git a mug o' wather an' wan o' thim big +crackers. Don't ye know how to trate comp'ny?" + +In a minute Polly was seated, a china mug of water in one hand, +and a crisp soda biscuit in the other, while the MacCarthy family +circled around her, eager for news from the beloved Brida. There +were only encouraging accounts to give of the little girl with the +broken ankle; but they led to so many questions that Polly began +to wonder how she should ever escape from these friendly people, +when Popover herself solved the question. + +The pretty black kitten suddenly appeared at the visitor's side, +and at the first caressing word from Polly jumped into her lap. + +"D' ye see that?" cried the delighted mother, and in the +momentary excitement Polly arose and said that she must go. + +Brida's sisters and small brother accompanied her for two blocks +up the street, and then, with numerous good-byes, they left her to +her long, wearisome walk. + +She had not gone far before she realized that the warm little +animal was more of a burden than she had counted on, exhausted as +she was already with her unusual exercise; but she kept up +courageously, even making little spurts of speed as she would +wonder if Miss Lucy were becoming anxious about her. After +awhile, however, instead of hurrying, she was obliged to stop now +and then on a corner, to catch the breeze coming up from the sea, +for she felt strangely faint. When she finally trudged up +Hospital Hill, the air grew cool all at once, and she quite forgot +herself for thinking of Brida and Miss Lucy. + +At the door of the ward she paused for a peep. The nurse was not +in sight. A few of the children were gathered at the windows with +books and pictures; several were on the floor playing quiet games. +So softly did she step that nobody knew she was there until she +was well in the room. The, spying both her and the kitten, there +was a shout and a rush. + +"No, you can't have her yet!" cried Polly, as small hands were +outstretched to lift the now uneasy burden from her arms. "Brida +has first right, because it's her kitten." + +"Oh, Popover!" squealed the little owner delightedly, snuggling +the furry creature to her cheek. + +"Where's Miss Lucy?" demanded Polly, waiving the children's +eager questions. + +"Oh, they sent to have her come somewhere!" answered Ethel +Jones. "She went in an awful hurry, and said prob'ly she'd be +back pretty soon; but she has n't come yet." + +"She let Leonora be monitor," put in Elsie Meyer. "I guess she'd +'a' let me, if I'd been up." + +"I wish she would come," said Polly anxiously, "for I want to +surprise her with Popover--it's Miss Lucy's birthday, you +know." + +"Somebody's coming now," and Cornelius O'Shaughnessy bent his +head to listen. "'T ain't her step," he decided disappointedly, +and the next moment the tall form of Miss Hortensia Price was seen +in the doorway. + +"Quick! Keep her out o' sight!" whispered Polly, pushing +Popover's little black head down under the sheet. + +The stately young woman walked the length of the room without a +word, and calmly sat down at the small table where Miss Lucy was +accustomed to prepare her medicines and to make such notes as were +needful. + +As Miss Price took up the little memorandum book and began to look +it over, Polly's heart almost stood still with consternation. She +had come to stay! Polly knew the signs. Such sudden shifts were +common enough in the hospital, but only twice, during Polly's +stay, had the occurred in the convalescent ward, and Miss Lucy had +been in charge for so long now that she had ceased giving herself +any worry over a possible change. + +For a moment the little girl stood hesitant; then the sight of +Brida, white and scared on her pillow, roused her to quick +thought. If she could only smuggle Popover down into Dr Dudley's +office before she was discovered! Instinct told her that "High +Price" would never tolerate a kitten in the ward. She took one +step forward. + +"Me-ew!" sounded faintly from Brida's cot. + +The nurse raised her head, listened inquiringly, and then resumed +her work of examining the patients' records. + +Polly stole nearer the bed. + +"Me-ew!" came again, louder than before. This time there was no +mistaking its locality. + +Miss Price sprang from her chair, and strode straight to where +Brida lay trembling. Popover's insistence for more air and a free +outlook was causing the coverlet to rise and fall in a startling +way. + +"How came that cat here?" demanded the nurse, pulling aside the +bedclothing. + +"I brought her," answered Polly. "She's Brida's kitty, and we +were going to give Miss Lucy a birthday surprise." + +A faint smile flickered on the young woman's face. The she made +a grab at the now frightened kitten; but the little creature +slipped from her hand, and jumping to the floor dared towards the +hall. + +"Oh, me dirlin' kitty!" wailed Brida. "She'll be losted! Oh, +Polly, ketch her!" + +Polly, however, was already flying in pursuit of the terrified +cat. + +"Shut that door!" called the mistress of the ward, as the eager +children rushed after. "And stay inside, all of you!" + +Cornelius O'Shaughnessy reluctantly obeyed the first order, and +the rest trailed back in disappointment. So exciting a race was +not an everyday occurrence. + +Polly, too far away to heed either command, was alarmed lest +Popover might manage to escape from the building, in which case +there would be small chance of catching her. On and on the little +cat led her, giving no ear to the coaxing, "Kitty, Kitty, +Kitty!" which she was constantly calling. Around and around the +big halls, up this flight of stairs and down that, into room after +room whose doors stood enticingly open, raced Popover and Poly, +while nurses and physicians that chanced their way stared and +laughed at the astonishing sight. + +Just as the kitten reached the foot of the first-floor staircase, +with her pursuer close behind, the front door opened, and Popover +darted towards the passage of escape. + +"Oh, shut the door quick! Catch her! Catch her! Don't let her get +out!" + +This most unexpected command, in Polly's voice, Dr. Dudley +endeavored to obey. He did succeed in slamming the door in front +of pussy, though at the risk of nipping her little black nose; but +when he stooped to snatch her she slipped between his feet, and +dashed into his office. Polly flew after, and the door went +together just as the Doctor reached it. + +"Rather an unusual reception this is," he twinkled, as Polly let +him in, a minute later. "Frighten me out of my wits by screaming +at me to catch a wild animal, and then, when I've done my best, +shut the door of my office right in my face! What do you mean by +such extraordinary conduct, Miss Polly May?" The physician shook +a threatening finger and the flushed and laughing little girl. + +"You don't look very scared," she giggled; and then as he +dropped into his lounging-chair she slipped into her favorite +position, atilt on its arm, and leaned confidingly against him. + +"Oh, I've had such a time with that kitten!" she sighed, smiling +across at the little creature, now curled up contentedly on the +Doctor's fur rug. + +"I take it, by the way you are breathing, that you and the cat +have been having a race." + +"All over everywhere," answered Polly, "till I thought I'd never +catch her. You see she was going to be a birthday surprise to +Miss Lucy, and High Price went and spoiled it all." + +The story of the afternoon was narrated in Polly's most vivid +style. + +"Is n't it queer that High Price should come just then?" she +sighed. "I don't like her; do you?" + +"She is an excellent young woman and a good nurse," Dr. Dudley +returned. + +"Well, I don't want her for my nurse," Polly maintained soberly. + +"Still, if you were very sick," smiled the Doctor, "I could not +hope for better care than she would give you." + +"Oh, if I were awfully sick, and out of my head, maybe High Price +would do; but if I knew anything I should want Miss Lucy." And +Polly's curls waved in emphasis. + +Dr. Dudley chuckled responsively. + +"I don't think you appreciate Miss Lucy," Polly continued. + +The Doctor's eyebrows went up. "Don't I?" he returned meekly. + +"You don't act as if you did," Polly sighed; "and I want you to, +for she's so sweet and little and--cuddly, you know. You could +n't call High Price cuddly; could you?" + +"It is n't a term I should apply to her," agreed the Doctor, +with the hint of a smile. + +"Miss Lucy would have liked Popover going to get along without +Miss Lucy, 'specially at bedtime." + +"What does she do then?" + +"Oh, we tell stories!--at least, I do, and sometimes she does, +and generally we sing--real soft, you know, so it won't disturb +anybody. Then she says a little prayer, and we go to bed. Dear +me, how we shall miss her! Why, the other night, when Aimee's arm +ached, Miss Lucy took her right in her lap, and rocked her to +sleep! And when little Isabel cries for her mamma, Miss Lucy's +just as nice to her, and cuddles her p so sweet! This is the way +High Price will do: she'll say, 'Is-a-bel'" (and Polly's tone was +in almost exact imitation of the nurse's measured accent), "'lie +still and go to sleep! The ward must be kept quiet.'" + +Dr. Dudley laughed. Then the said gravely:-- + +"Do you think that is really fair--to accuse Miss Price of +what she may never do? Besides, Polly, it is n't quite +respectful." + +"No, I suppose it is n't," the little girl admitted. "Excuse me, +please. But I wish you could know the difference between High +Price and Low Price." + +The Doctor's eyes twinkled; but Polly, all unseeing, went on:-- + +"How soon do you think Miss Lucy'll come back? Where is she +now?" + +"She has been assigned to one of the women's wards. It is +uncertain when she will be changed again." + +"Well, I s'pose we'll have to stand it," sighed Polly +philosophically. "Why, Popover!" for the kitten had come up +unnoticed, and now jumped to the Doctor's knee. "Is n't she cute? +Brida thinks lots of her--there!" she broke out compunctiously, +"I forgot all about Brida, and she does n't know what's become of +her! I must run up and tell her. Will it be very much trouble +to keep her here till to-morrow? Thin I'll carry her home." + +"Suppose we taker her home in the auto, after tea?" + +"Oh, lovely!" + +Dr. Dudley was looking at his watch. + +"Is it 'most tea-time?" Polly inquired. + +"They are probably all through up in the convalescent ward," he +laughed. "You'd better come into the dining-room and have supper +with me." + +"Oh, thank you; that will be nice! I'll run up and tell Brida, +and then I'll come." + + + +Chapter IV + +David + +Dr. Dudley had been the rounds of the convalescent ward, to see +how his patients were progressing. Now he had paused at the small +table by the window, where Polly was waiting to carry some +medicine to Linus Hardy. + +As she took the glass form Miss Price's hand, and started away, +she heard the physician say, "Can I have Polly for a few +minutes?" + +"Certainly, Dr. Dudley," was the reply; and Polly returned +wondering what was wanted of her. + +"There is a boy upstairs who is getting discouraged," the Doctor +began, as they went through the hall, and in hand, "and I think, +perhaps, you can cheer him up a little." + +"Is he a big boy or a little boy?" asked Polly anxiously. + +"I should say, about six months bigger than you," the Doctor +laughed. "He Is n't anybody you will be afraid of, Thistledown; +but he is a very nice boy. His mother is just recovering from a +sever illness, so she has n't been able to come to see him yet, +and he feels pretty lonely." + +"I wish he were down in our ward," returned Polly,--"that +is," she amended, "if Miss Lucy were only there." + +"I shall have him transferred as soon as he is well enough," the +Doctor assured her. And then they were at the entrance of the +children's ward. + +Away to the farther end of the room Dr. Dudley went, and Polly +followed. Some of the patients looked curiously at her as she +passed, for the news of her recent accession to the staff had +spread through the hospital, and nearly everybody was eager for a +sight of her. + +Polly was thinking only of the boy whom she had come to see; and +when, at last, the Doctor stopped and turned towards her, she +glanced shyly at the lad on the pillow. + +"David," began Dr. Dudley, "this is Miss Polly May, the chief +story-tell of the convalescent ward. And, Polly, allow me to +present Master David Collins, who had a race a week or two ago, +with a runaway horse, and who was foolish enough to let the horse +beat." + +The Doctor's eyes were twinkling, and Polly let go a giggle; so +the boy ventured to laugh. A week little laugh it was; but it +helped to start the acquaintance pleasantly, which was just what +Dr. Dudley wanted. + +"You can have exactly ten minutes to do all your talking in," +was the physician's parting sally; "so you'd better hurry." + +Polly's eyes and David's met in smiling appreciation. + +"He says such funny things." praised Polly. + +Polly did n't quite know how to begin to cheer the lad up. Her +tender heart was stirred to unusual sympathy, as she gazed into +the pitifully drawn little face, with its big doll-blue eyes. She +must surely say something to make David happier--and the +minutes were going fast. After all, it was David that was first +to speak again. + +"Do you like stories?" he asked. + +"Oh, I just love them!" + +"So do I. You must know a great many. The Doctor said you told +them to the children. I wish there was time for you to tell me +one." + +"I'm afraid there is n't to-day," responded Polly; "but maybe I +can stay longer when I come again." + +"I hope so," returned David politely. "My mother read me a story +the evening before I was hurt. It was about a king and queen that +lived beautiful stories, and I was going to live such a brave, +splendid one every day--and then the horse knocked me down! +Such a lot of miserable stories as I've lived since I came here, +not much like the ones I'd planned! But to-day's will be better, +because you'll be in it," he ended brightly. + +Polly's eyes had been growing rounder and rounder with surprise +and delight. + +"Oh! Was it a Cherry-Pudding Story?" she asked eagerly. + +"Why, have you read it?" and the little white face actually grew +pink. "My aunt wrote it, and sent us a paper that had it in!" + +"Why--ee!" cried Polly. "is n't that funny! And we've been +trying to live nice stories, too--all of us, up in the ward! +Miss Lucy said we'd see which could live the best one. A lady +told me the story. And your aunt really made it all up?" + +"Yes; she writes lots of stories," smiled David. "Then she sends +them to mamma and me and wen they're printed." + +"How splendid!" beamed Polly. "When you get well enough to come +down in our ward, you can tell us some, can't you?" + +The boy's face saddened. "I guess I can't ever come," he said. + +"Why not?" + +"Because I was hurt so badly. I don't think I'm going to get +well." + +"Oh, yes, you will!" asserted Polly. "Of course Dr. Dudley will +cure you! Goodness! You ought to have seen how I was all smashed +up! But Dr. Dudley cured me--he can cure anybody!" + +"He can?" echoed David, a little doubtfully. "How 'd you get +hurt? Were you run over?" + +"Yes, by a building," Polly laughed. "Only it did n't run; it +fell. I was 'way up on the third floor, and all of a sudden it +went--just like that!" Polly's little hands dropped flat in +her lap. "I heard a great noise, and felt myself going, and I +remember I clutched hold of Uncle Gregory. Then I did n't know +another thing till I woke up over in that corner. See that bed +with the dark-haired little girl in it, the third from the end? +That was my cot." + +"Was your leg broken?" asked David, in a most interested tone. + +"Yes, my leg was broken, and my hip was _discolated_ (Polly +sometimes twisted her long words a little), and my ankle was +hurt, and two ribs, and, oh, lots of things! Doctor says now that +he really did n't think I'd ever walk again--I mean, without +crutches." + +"And you're not lame a bit?" David returned incredulously. + +"Not a mite, not the least mite!" Polly assured him. + +"Then perhaps I shall get well," the boy began brightly. + +"Of course you will!" broke in Dr. Dudley's happy voice. + +He put his hand on the lad's wrist, and stood for a moment, noting +his pulse. + +"It does n't seem to hurt you to have visitors," he smiled; "but +they must n't stay too long. Say good-bye, Polly." + +"Will you bring her again tomorrow?" invited David timidly. "And +let her stay long enough to tell me a story?" + +"I should n't wonder," the Doctor promised. And they left the +boy smiling as he had not smiled since he had been in the +hospital. + +After that, Polly went every day to see David, until, one morning, +Dr. Dudley told her that he was not quite well enough to have a +visitor. She had come to look forward to her quiet talks with the +blue-eyed lad as the happiest portion of the whole day, for Miss +Hortensia Price still stayed in the convalescent ward, and the +Doctor had been too busy to take her out in his automobile. Elsie +and Brida and Aimee and the rest were all good comrades, yet none +of them possessed David's powers of quick comprehension. Often +Polly had to explain things to them; David always kept up with her +thought--there was the difference. And David, notwithstanding +his present proneness to discouragement, was a most winsome boy. + +So the first day that she was not allowed to maker her customary +visit seemed a long day indeed, and eagerly she awaited the next +morning. But several days passed before she again saw David. +Then it was but for a very few minutes, and he was so wan and weak +that she went away feeling sorrowful and anxious. Yet Dr. Dudley +told her that she had done his patient good. That was a slight +comfort. + +The next day, and the next, the lad was again too ill for company, +and a few sentences which Polly overheard filled her with +foreboding. She was putting fresh sheets on one of the cots--a +task which she had learned to do well--when she caught David's +name. + +"His heart is very weak," one of the stairs nurses was saying to +Miss Price. "He can't stand many more such sinking spells. Dr. +Dudley has given orders to be called at once, day or night, if he +should have another." + +Here the voice dropped, and Polly could not catch the words; but +she had heard enough. The sheet went on crookedly. Polly did not +know it, her eyes were so blurred with tears. She kept the sorry +news to herself, and all day long the children wondered what made +Polly so sober. + +If she could have seen Dr. Dudley she would have asked him about +David; but for several days she caught only passing glimpses of +him, when he was too busy to be questioned. The little girl grew +more and more anxious, but kept hoping that because she heard +nothing David must be better. + +It was during the short absence of Miss Price, one afternoon, that +Elsie Meyer complained of the disagreeable liniment on her hip. + +"It's just horrid! I can't stand it a minute longer!" she fretted. +"Say, Polly, I wish you'd spray some of that nice-smellin' stuff +around--what do you call it?" + +"The resodarizer, I guess you mean," responded Polly, with more +glibness than accuracy. + +"Yes, that's it," Elsie returned. "Hurry up and use it, before +High Price gets back!" + +"Perhaps I'd better wait and ask her," she hesitated. + +"No, don't! Miss Lucy always lets you take it," Elsie urged. + +"Yes, I know," doubtfully. Then she went to the shelf in the +dressing-room, where the atomizer box stood. + +"There is n't a drop in it," she said, holding the bottle to the +light. "Miss Lucy must have forgotten to fill it after I used it +last time." Then, spying a small phial on the shelf, close to +where the box had been, "Oh I guess she left it for me to fill!" +And, unscrewing the chunky little bottle from the spraying +apparatus, she soon had it half full. + +Elsie smiled in blissful anticipation of the refreshing perfume, +but as the spray fell near her she greeted it with a torrent of +cries. + +"Ugh, ugh! O-o-h! take it away!" + +Then Polly, too, puckered her face in disgust. "Why, I must have +put--" + +"What are you doing with that atomizer?" interrupted Miss +Price's voice. "How came kerosene oil in here? Have you been +spraying it around?" + +"I did n't know it was kerosene," answered Polly meekly. "I +s'posed it was the resodarizer--" + +"Deoderizer, child!" + +"Oh, yes, I get it twisted! It's that kind that smells so +nice." + +Miss Price gave a little laugh. "Well, this does n't smell +nice." + +"I'm sorry," mourned Polly. "I don't see how a kerosene bottle +came up there--oh, I know! Miss Lucy was putting some on her +watch, the other day, and she was called off--I remember! She +must have left it there." + +"But the bottle is labeled," Miss Price replied, fetching it +from the table where Polly had set it down. "Can't you read?" + +"If course I can!" she answered, a little indignant at the +question. "I guess I was thinking of--something else," she +ended. + +"David" had been on her tongue, but she kept the name back. + +"Don't you know that you should always have your mind on what you +do? It is a mercy that you did not get hold of anything worse." + +"I could n't," Polly protested. "The poisons and all such things +are up in the medicine closet, and that's always locked." + +"You have been allowed too much liberty," Miss Price went on. +"hereafter remember that you are not to touch a bottle of any +description. But, then," she added, half to herself, but which +came plainly to Polly's ear, "there is no need of such an order +while I am in charge. I shall see that none are left within +reach." + +The child's eyes flashed. This clear implication of the one she +adored set loose her temper, and she burst out passionately:-- + +"Miss Lucy always does everything just right, and I think it's +mean of you to hint that she does n't!" + +Miss \Price looked steadily at Polly, the color wavering on her +cheeks; then she said, with more than her usual gentleness:-- + +"Polly, I am sorry, but I think I shall have to punish you. You +may go and sit in that wooden chair over there, with your back to +the window. Do not stir or speak until I give you permission." + +Polly walked straight to the seat designated, but there was no +meekness in her obedience. She carried her head defiantly, and +her face was hot with anger. To think that "High Price" should +dare to find fault with Miss Lucy! That rankled in her loyal +little heart. + + + +Chapter V + +With the Assistance of Lone Star + +A strain of music floated up from the street, and the children +that were able to be on their feet rushed for the windows. + +"It's a band wagon!" cried Ethel. + +"Two!" amended Moses. "Say, Miss Price, can't Polly just come +and look at 'em?" + +"No," was the quiet answer, while Cornelius O'Shaughnessy made +faces at the young woman's back. + +But Polly was not missing as much as the children feared. At +first her mind was in too great a tumult for her to care for band +wagons. Then, as the music soothed her excited nerves and drew +her thoughts into pleasanter paths, she pictured the great wagons, +and ther performers in scarlet and gold, as she had seen them +scores of times, and she seemed to watch their progress under the +arch of elms as perfectly as if she were not in the idle of the +room with her eyes shut. + +Them music grew faint and fainter, and was finally lost in the +noise of the street. The children returned to their various +occupations, giving Polly furtive tokens of sympathy on their way +back. Leonora squeezed her hand; Cornelius patted her shoulder; +Moses gently pulled a curl--one of his friendly amusements; and +Brida, who was now about on crutches, stooped to kiss her cheek. + +"Brida, do not talk to Polly!" + +The sudden command startled the child almost into tripping. + +"I was n't talkin'!" she protested. "I was only kissin' her." + +"Well, come away from her--clear away," for the little girl +was not making very quick time. + +"I'm comin' s' fas' 's I can!" she pouted. "I can't _run_ on +these old crutches--so there!" + +Polly almost giggled aloud at Brida's daring, but promptly +subsided into a safe look of gravity. It was pleasant to feel +sure of her friends. She was still thinking in this vein when a +rap on the half-closed door was at once followed by the frightened +face of one of the upstairs young nurses. + +"Oh, Polly!" she cried, at sight of her, "run quick, and catch +Dr. Dudley for David! He's out there cranking up, and I can't--" + +But Polly had shot past her, and was already on the stairs. + +The physician was starting his car, as she gained the front +entrance. + +"Doctor! Doctor! OH, Doctor!" she screamed, dashing down steps +and walk at a reckless speed; but he did not look round and her +voice was lost in the noise of the machine. + +Her feet never slackened. Straight on she flew, like a real +thistledown, her fair curls streaming on the wind, her eyes big +with a vague terror. As the Doctor sped farther and farther away +from her, she ceased calling realizing that she must reach him in +some other way. + +The second house below the hospital was Colonel Gresham's. The +Colonel himself was stepping into his light buggy, to give Lone +Star, his favorite trotter, a little exercise, when Polly rushed +up. + +"Oh, please, sir!" she panted, "will you catch Dr. Dudley?-- +They want him at the hospital--and I could n't make him hear! +He's right ahead--in his auto--the dark green one! David +will die if he don't come!" + +For answer, Polly was whirled into the carriage, and before she +could recover her breath Lone Star was making as good time as he +had ever made in his short but famous life. + +"Whew! The Colonel is going some!"--"Who's that pretty little +kid with him?"--"Don't he leg it, though!" These and kindred +observations were elicited all the way down the street, men +stopping to see the well-known horse go by, and children scurrying +across his track. + +But the Doctor seemed bent on leading his pursuers a lengthy +chase, for no sooner had they gained on him sufficiently to set +Polly's heart dancing with hope than he suddenly increased his +speed, at once putting a greater distance between them. Then, +slowing for an instant, he vanished round a distant corner. + +"Zounds!" muttered the Colonel. + +"He turned right opposite that white birch!" cried Polly. + +"Sure?" + +"Yes; I was keeping watch." + +So was the Colonel; but he had not noticed the tree. + +Polly's assurance held enough decision to satisfy the driver, and +he took the turn she had indicated, where the glint of the weeping +white birch on the opposite side of the street had caught her +observant eye. But on the cross-road no dark green auto was in +sight. + +As they came to the first street on the right, however, a solitary +car met their eager eyes. + +Polly looked her delight, as the swept round the corner and along +the hard, clear stretch. The flicker of a smile was on the +Colonel's rugged face. + +"Doc-tor! Doctor Dud-ley!" called Polly. + +The physician turned his head. + +"Oh, don't stop!" she entreated, for he was slowing up, as they +came alongside. + +"Please go right back--quick! David's worse!" + +One astonished glance, and he comprehended, and obeyed. Colonel +Gresham gave him room for the turn. Then, with a graceful gesture +of farewell, and, "I thank you!" he whizzed past them and out of +sight. + +"Oh, I hope he'll get there in time!" sighed Polly. + +"I think he will," the Colonel nodded. "He looks it." + +"I don't want David to die; he's such a nice boy." + +Lone Star was taking the road easily, after his spurt of speed. +The lines lay loosely on the Colonel's knee. + +"Is this David some relative of yours?" he asked. + +"OH, no, sir! I've only known him a few weeks, since he was +knocked down by a runaway horse, and hurt so badly. He's David +Collins, and I'm Polly May. Dr. Dudley took me up to see him, +because he needed cheering up; but now he has bad turns with his +heart, and I can't go. He's a lovely boy. It was so good of you +to take me to catch the Doctor--I don't know what I should have +done if you had n't! And did n't your horse go fast! I never saw +a horse go so fast before. I think he's beautiful; don't you?" + +"I like him." The Colonel smiled down into Polly's eyes quite as +if they were old friends. "Suppose I take you for a little longer +drive--would your friends mind?" + +"Oh, thank you!" Polly began, "I'd love it!" Then she stopped, +with sudden recollection. "I guess I can't, though--I'd +forgotten all about it!--I must go back, and finish being +punished." + +Colonel Gresham laughed outright, so Polly laughed too. + +"I made an awful mistake," she explained; "I sprayed some +kerosene all around, instead of de-sodarizer." + +The Colonel was grave for a polite moment. Then, "And you did +n't smell it?" he laughed. + +"Not till Elsie yelled at me to stop. I don't see shy I did +n't." + +"But it seems hardly fair to punish one for a mistake." + +"Well," confessed Polly, "that was n't all. I got mad, and I +guess I was pretty saucy to High Price. She said something about +Miss Lucy that I did n't like, and I told her what I thought--I +just had to! So she sent me to sit in a chair till she said to +get up. Then when the nurse came for me to catch Dr. Dudley, I +was so scared about David that I ran right off, without even +asking permission--I don't know what she will do to me now! +But you can't stop for anything when folks are 'most dying, can +you?" + +"I should say not," the Colonel replied. "I reckon she won't +treat you very badly." + +"I don't care what she does, if David only gets well. But, oh, +how can David's mother stand it, if he does n't! She's sick, you +know, so she could n't come to see him--he's all she's got, and +such a dear boy! He works to earn money for her when he's well, +sells papers, and everything. I guess they're rather poor; but +perhaps I ought n't to talk about that. Please don't tell anybody +I said it, 'cause I don't really know." + +"I shall not speak of it," promised Colonel Gresham gravely. +"But how happens it that you're at the hospital? You're not +sick, are you?" + +"Not a bit now. I was hurt, but Dr. Dudley cured me. I'm on the +staff--that's why I stay," Polly explained soberly. + +"Oh! You're that little girl, are you?" + +She nodded. + +"I heard something about it at the time. Well, Lone Star and I +will be glad to take you for a drive some other day, when you have +n't any punishment on hand." He drew up the horse at the hospital +entrance. + +"Oh! Is that his name?" exclaimed Polly. "What a loveluscious +one! Would he mind if I stroked his nose?" she asked, as the +Colonel lifted her down. + +"He would like it very much." And they went round to the horse's +head together. + +"Now I must go in," Polly sighed, giving the affectionate animal +a last, loving pat. "I thank you ever and ever so much, Colonel +Gresham, and I should be happy to go to ride with you again some +day. I hope I have n't hindered you. Good-bye." + +She skipped up the long walk to the house, the Colonel watching +her until she disappeared at a side door. + +Polly could not resist peeping into the Doctor's office before +going upstairs. The room was empty, and she went slowly on, +thinking of David. + +Miss Price was standing near the door of the convalescent ward. +She turned as Polly entered. + +"Where have you been staying?" she asked. "Dr Dudley came long +ago." + +"Yes, I know; but I was with Colonel Gresham, and I could n't get +here till he did." + +"Colonel Gresham! Pray, how came you with him?" Miss Price was +plainly astonished. + +"Why, he took me to catch the Doctor. And Lone Star got there! +Oh, did n't he go! Is n't it a love--luscious name?" Polly's +eyes shone. + +"Child!" sighed the nurse, "what have I told you about using +that word?" + +"I forgot," Polly answered meekly. + +"You should n't forget. I hope you did n't talk that way to +Colonel Gresham." + +"He would n't care," replied Polly comfortably. + +"He would think you had not had proper training. Now, remember, +there is no such word as loveluscious. In this case you should +have said that it was a good name or a pleasing name--though it +is rather too fanciful," she added. + +"I love it!" cried Polly; "but it would n't sound as if I did, +just to say it was good." + +Then Polly's thoughts suddenly went back to Lone Star's errand. + +"Oh, Miss Price!" she asked, "how is David?" + +"I have not heard," was the quiet reply. + +"Well, I'll go and finish up being punished now," Polly said, +with a tiny sigh, and she walked over to the chair which stood +where she had left it. + +Miss price did not appear to notice; but the children exchanged +surprised glances. Voluntarily to continue a punishment was +something with which they were unacquainted. They tried to +attract Polly's attention, but her eyes were feverishly watching +the half-open hall door. Dr. Dudley might stop when he came down +--unless--! Her heart grew sick with the possibility. + +At last she caught his step. Yes, he was coming there! Smilingly +he pushed the door wide. Polly smiled in response--at least, +David had not died! + +"Want to come downstairs?" he invited, crossing over to her. + +Still smiling, she shook her head, putting her finger to her lips. + +With a puzzled look, the Doctor turned to Miss Price. + +"What's happened?" he queried. "Has Polly suddenly become dumb? +Or is it a game?" + +"She is being punished," was the grave answer. + +"Oh!" he replied. "Well, when she has been punished enough, +please send her down to me." + +He strode away, without one word of David, to Polly's overwhelming +disappointment. + +In half an hour Miss Price said, "Polly, you may go now." + +She bounded off, with not even a backward glance, and the children +felt lonelier than before. But Polly's mind was too full of David +for her to think of the rest. + +To her surprise the Doctor was not in his office; but upon a book +of bright color she spied a tiny note with her name on it. +Catching it up eagerly, she read:-- + + Dear Thistledown,-- + + Sorry to be called away, when I have invited + Company; but wait and take tea with me. I shall + Be back soon. I've been looking over this book, + And I think you will like it. + + Sincerely, + + Robert Dudley. + + David is better. + +"Oh, I'm so glad, glad, glad!" breathed Polly, clasping the note +in her small hands. + +Then she read it once more, and afterwards established herself in +the Doctor's easiest chair, to begin the book he had suggested. +If she like the story she would tell it to David. + +Polly was so far away in thought that she did not notice Dr. +Dudley's entrance, until he was inside the office. Then she flew +to him. + +He caught her in his arms, surveying her with a whimsical smile. + +"All punished, are you?" he asked. + +She laughed, responding with a gay affirmative. + +"It does n't seem to have weighed you down much," he observed, +drawing her to a seat beside him. + +"It was only sitting still and not talking," she explained, "and +I took two turns at it, so 't was n't bad. I told Colonel Gresham +about the kerosene, and it made him laugh. Is n't Lone Star +beautiful?" + +"Decidedly; but how came you with the Colonel?" queried the +Doctor. + +"Why, he was right out there, if front of his house, and I asked +him to catch you--there was n't any other way. I could n't +make you hear. Oh, I do wish you could have seen Lone Star go!" + +"I'll venture he never did a more valuable service," said the +Doctor fervently. "Perhaps I might add, or you either. If it had +not been for your ready wits things might have gone worse. I +tried some new medicine for David, and it worked well, exceedingly +well." + +"Is he a good deal better?" + +"Very comfortable. He was sleeping when I left him. Don't +worry, Thistledown!" for tears stood in Polly's eyes. "I think +he is going to pull through all right, and we'll have him down in +the other ward before you know it." + +Tea was served directly, and there were big, juicy blackberries, +with which Dr. Dudley piled Polly's dish high. + +When they returned to the office the story of the afternoon was +finished, Polly holding back nothing, even repeating her saucy +speech to the nurse. + +The Doctor received it with a queer little smile. + +"It was dreadfully impolite things when I get mad." + +"Most people do," he responded. "One of the worst features of +anger is that it robs us of self-control, and that is a terrible +loss, if only for a moment." + +Polly did not speak and after a bit of a pause the Doctor went on. + +"Miss Price is going through a pretty hard place just now. Word +came yesterday that her only sister, who is a missionary in +Turkey, is very sick and not expected to live." + +"Oh, I wish I had n't said that!" Polly broke out penitently. "I +might go up and tell her I'm sorry," she hesitated. + +"It would n't be a bad plan," Dr. Dudley replied. + +So Polly said good-night rather soberly, although carrying away +with her the gay-colored book and the happy belief that David was +going to get well. + +Her feet lagged, as they drew near the ward. What would Miss +Price say? Would she make it easy or hard for her to apologize? +Then the thought of the sick sister far away in Turkey, and half +forgot herself. + +The nurse was writing at her little table, when she looked up to +see Polly by her side. + +"I'm sorry I was so saucy this afternoon," came in a soft voice. +"I did n't know about your sister then. I hope she'll get +well." + +For a moment Miss Price did not speak, and Polly fancied she saw +tears in the black eyes. + +"Thank you, my dear," she replied then. "Perhaps I was too +severe. But we will be friends now, won't we?" + +Polly gave a serious assent, in doubt whether she should proffer a +kiss or not; but finally went away without giving the token. She +had a vague feeling that Miss Hortensia Price would not care for +kisses. + + + +Chapter VI + +Elsie's Birthday + +For a week Elsie Meyers had been talking about her coming +birthday, and half wishing that she could be discharged early +enough to allow its celebration at home. + +"Mamma always makes a cake for our birthdays," she told the +children, plaintively. "Last year mine was choc'late, and year +before that, jelly. Mamma said next time she'd have it orange, +same's she did Ida's. Now I can't have no cake or nothin', 'count +o' this old hip!" and she pouted discontentedly. + +"But your arm is 'most well," suggested Polly. "That's one good +thing!" + +"Yes," admitted Elsie. + +"And it's nice that you can be all around, instead of having to +lie abed," Polly went on, hunting for happy birthday accompaniments. + +"Bet you 't is!" smiled Elsie. "Ying' a-bed ain't much fun, +'specially when you ache anywhere." + +"If Miss Lucy was here, maybe she'd have a cake for you," put in +Leonora. + +"But she ain't," responded Cornelius unnecessarily. + +"She ain't," echoed Otto Kriloff, his face reflecting his +thought. + +"When do you s'pose she'll come back?" queried Maggie O'Donnell. + +NOby could answer. + +"Maybe she never will," said Elsie gloomily,--"anyway till we +all get gone." + +"Oh, Elsie!" protested Polly. + +"Well," was the outing retort, "if High Price stays here much +longer--" + +"She!" hushed Cornelius, "she's comin'!" For light steps +sounded along the corridor. + +The children cast furtive, half-frightened glances towards the +hall door; but it was not Miss Hortensia Price that smilingly +opened it. + +"Miss Lucy! Miss Lucy!" they shouted; and with a rush they were +upon her, embracing, pulling, squeezing, until she dropped into a +chair, laughing and breathless. + +"Have yer come to stay?" queried Maggie anxiously. + +"For the present," she nodded. + +A big, squealing, "O-o-h!" of joy rang through the ward, while +Polly silently clung to one hand, as if she would never let it go. + +"What's all this rumpus about?" came growlingly from the +entrance; and the children turned to see Dr. Dudley surveying +them, his eyes a-twinkle with fun. + +Polly giggled. The rest looked a bit disconcerted. + +"Accept my congratulations," he said, extending his hand to the +nurse. + +Polly reluctantly relinquished her hold of Muss Lucy, that the +physician's greeting might be properly responded to, while the +young lady blushed with pleasure. + +"I'm jealous," the Doctor went on, looking around on the little +group. "You never make such a fuss over me when I come." + +"Do you want us to?" ventured Cornelius. + +The Doctor laughed. "Well," he responded, "I'll excuse you from +giving me such an ovation every day. How is that back of yours, +Cornelius?" And he proceeded on his accustomed rounds. + +One by one the children sidled back to Miss Lucy. + +"It's my birthday to-day," announced Elsie, proceeding with her +usual information regarding the home birthday cakes. + +The nurse received the news with all the interest that any little +girl could desire, even going so far as to "wonder" if a tea +party would n't make a pleasant ending for the afternoon. That +set Elsie into a flutter of blissful anticipations, so that when +she overheard the Doctor telling Polly the auto got to wish she, +to, could have a drive. + +"Did you ever go to ride with Dr. Dudley?" queried Polly, as +Miss Lucy buttoned her into a fresh frock. + +"Oh, no!" + +"Did n't he ever invite you?" she persisted. + +"Of course not! Now, turn round, and let me see if you are all +right." + +"Well, he ought to! It is n't fair for me to have all the rides. +He's lovely to go with!" + + +Miss Lucy did not answer, but her cheeks were almost as pink as +Polly's dress, while she pulled out the neck ruffle and retied the +ribbon that caught up the bright curls. + +Polly was starting off without a word. + +"Good-bye, dear! I hope you will have just as good a time as you +always do." And Miss Lucy detained her long enough to leave a +kiss on the red lips. + +A gay little laugh was the only reply. Then Polly ran out of the +dressing-room and across the ward. The children heard her +tripping down the stairs, and hurried over to the windows to see +her go. But nobody appeared outside, and presently Polly +returned. + +"Put on your hat quick, Miss Lucy!" she cried gleefully. "You're +going, 'stead o' me! Dr. Dudley says he shall feel very much +honored to have your company! May I get your hat?" + +"Polly May!" the young woman exclaimed, in a flutter of +astonishment, "what have you been telling him?" + +"OH, nothing much!" laughed Polly. "He wants you--so go right +along!" + +"Yes, do!" the children chimed in. + +"Do!" echoed Elsie. "'Cause it's my birthday!" + +Of course Miss Lucy insisted that she could not, would not, go. +She pleaded lack of time and unsuitable dress. She summoned to +her aid every excuse at command. But in the end she did exactly +as the children wished, and they had the delight of seeing her +drive away with the Doctor, while they chorused merry good-byes to +the frantic waving of handkerchiefs. + +When the automobile was out of sight, Polly thoughtfully began to +paint the picture for those who had been shut off from a peep of +it. + +"They looked just lovely together, Miss Lucy in her pretty gray +suit, with the pink rose on her hat! She waved her hand, and Dr. +Dudley waved his!" + +"Wonder how long they'll be gone," put in Elsie. + +"I don't know--oh, say, let's clean up the dressing-room, and dust +everywhere, so Miss Lucy won't have it to do when she gets back!" +And Poly, assured of followers, skipped away for the dust-cloths. + +Of course Polly did most of the little tasks; that was to be +expected, since she had no lame back or twisted leg or crutches in +the way. But everybody that was on his feet had some share in the +general service, and was therefore free to appropriate a part of +the praise with which Miss Lucy showered them. + +Yes, she had had a charming ride, she told them, and they felt it +must be so, since they had never seen her in a gayer mood. + +"Run up to my room if you can slip away," she whispered to Polly. +"I shall be there changing my gown." + +After Miss Lucy had gone, the attention of the rest was attracted +by a horseback party on the street, and Polly darted away as she +had been bidden. + +"Dear child!" said Miss Lucy, taking the little face in both her +hands. "You have given me a great pleasure." + +"It was n't I," laughed Polly. "It was Dr. Dudley. Are n't you +glad now that you went?" + +"Yes," she smiled. "Because if I had n't, Elsie might not have +had this birthday present. Come, see what Doctor and I bought for +her." + +She opened a small package, disclosing a tiny box. In the box was +a little gold signet ring with and Old English "E" engraved upon +it. + +"Oh," admired Polly, "is n't that lovelicious! I'm so glad for +Elsie!" + +"Yes," Miss Lucy went on, "I think she will like it. We wanted +to give her something that she would keep to remember the day by, +and we could n't think of anything better. She has a poor little +home, though her mother works hard and does all she can to make +the children happy. But Elsie can't have had many bright things +in her life, so we're going to try to make her birthday as +pleasant as possible." + +"I should think this would please anybody, it is so beautiful!" +and Polly laid it gently back in its little case. + +Presently she was downstairs again, happy in the knowledge of +sharing a secret with Miss Lucy and Dr. Dudley. + +After dinner she read to the children from her new book of fairy +tales, and the Miss Lucy taught them some new games that they +could all play--even those who were still in bed. + +They were just finishing one of these, when the strains of an old +song suddenly sounded near by. + +"Oh, a hand-organ!" somebody shouted, and they flocked to the +windows. + +"And he's got a monkey!" squealed Brida. + +"Oh, that's 'count o' my birthday!" cried the happy Elsie. "I do +wish he'd come up here!" + +Her words floated down to the organ grinder, and at once he +allowed the monkey more length of cord. The little animal began +to climb the wisteria vine, and presently was doffing his tiny red +cap to the children, who shrieked with delight. + +"Here's a penny for him, Elsie," said Dr. Dudley, who had come +up behind them unnoticed. + +The little birthday girl joyfully took the bright coin, and +dropped it into the monkey's outstretched paw, receiving from him +a characteristic "thank you," which caused more glee. + +Again and again the little gay-coated messenger made trips up and +down the wisteria, transferring the pennies from the children's +hands to his master's pocket, until the yellow coins finally gave +out, and the Doctor was obliged to say, "No more!" + +Even then the man smilingly played on, and when at last he and the +monkey bade their patrons good-bye, Elsie thought that no little +girl ever had so "splendid" a birthday as she was having. + +The party tea was served precisely at half-past five o'clock, and +such a tea! Little biscuits scarcely bigger than silver dollars, +small tarts filled with fig marmalade, great berries that the +children agreed were super-bondonjical, tiny nut cookies, a +frosted cake decorated with nine pink candles, chocolate in pretty +cups, and--to top off the feast--ice cream in the shape of +chickens! + +Miss Lucy and Polly and Dr. Dudley served those little people who +could not be at the table, and nobody--not even the birthday +girl herself--enjoyed it all better than did Polly May. + +Polly was eagerly anticipating the time when Elsie should be +presented with the signet ring, and followed Miss Lucy's movements +with watchful eyes. At last the nurse left the ward, and +disappeared in the direction of her own room. The moment must be +close at hand! + +Dr. Dudley told funny stories, and Polly laughed with the rest; +but her eyes were on the doorway, and her heart in a flutter of +excitement. The moments piled up, and Miss Lucy did not come +back. Polly grew anxious. Even Dr. Dudley looked at his watch, +and glanced towards the door. + +When, after a good quarter of an hour, the nurse returned, Polly +knew that something was wrong. Dr. Dudley knew it, too; and soon +he and Miss Lucy were talking together in low tones beyond the +reach of Polly's ears. Had something befallen the ring? What +could be the matter? The children gleefully discussing the +Doctor's last story; but Polly's thoughts were at the other end of +the room. When Miss Lucy and Dr. Dudley came back to them, +however, both faces were so bright, Polly decided that she must +have been mistaken, and looked for the ring to appear. But it was +not so much as mentioned. The Doctor bade Elsie and the others +good-bye, and Miss Lucy accompanied him into the hall. + +After a while the suspense became unbearable, and Polly started +for Miss Lucy's room. It was around the corner, on another +corridor, and as Polly reached the turn she heard voices. +Involuntarily she halted. + +"It's the strangest thing," Miss Lucy was saying. "I remember +laying it on the dresser after showing it to you, and then I was +called away, and I can't recollect putting it in the box. I know +I locked the door when I went out--I don't understand it!" + +"And you say nobody but Polly has been in the room since?" + +The voice belonged to Miss Curtis, one of Miss Lucy's closest +friends. + +"Unless it was entered with a skeleton key." + +"Well, there's only one solution to the musterd, it seems to +me," Miss Curtis replied. + +"I won't, I won't believe it!" Miss Lucy burst out. "Polly is +honesty itself. She would n't do such a thing any more than-- +you or I would. If it were some children--but Polly!" + +"You might question her anyway; ask her if she noticed the ring +when she came in after those napkins." + +"I--can't! She'd see through it at once. Polly is bright. It +would break her heart to know we had such a thought. I believe it +got knocked off the dresser some way and will be found sooner or +later; but I wanted to give it to Elsie to-day. I'm all upset +about it!" + +"Well, I can't help thinking--" + +Polly, weak and wretched, shrank away, and went softly back +through the long corridor. At the door of the ward she met Dr. +Dudley. + +"I was looking for you," he said. "Don't you want to take that +ride you missed this morning? I have a call to go down to +Linwood, and it is just cool enough now to be pleasant. Better +put on your coat; your dress is thin." + +"Could n't you--take Elsie?" faltered Polly faintly. + +"Elsie? Well, Thistledown, I feel hurt! Twice in one day! Have +you sworn off from auto riding?" + +Usually this would have brought out a happy laugh, but now Polly +merely answered, "No," very soberly. + +"I should n't dare to risk a ride for Elsie until her hip is +better," the Doctor resumed. "I'll try to taker her some day, +when she is a little further along. Now, run and get you hat. +I'll wait for you." + +Polly never quite forgot that ride. The fresh, twilight air, +fragrant with dewy blossoms; the exhilarating motion; the Doctor's +merry speeches;--these would have been sufficient at any other +time to fill her with joy. Now she was but half conscious of them +all; the dreadful ache in her heart over-powered everything else. +She wondered if Dr. Dudley felt as Miss Lucy did. Or did he, with +Miss Curtis, suspect her to be--a thief! She longed to cry +out, "Oh, I did n't! I did n't! I did n'!" But, instead, she +silently stared out on the dusky road, and wished herself at home, +in her own little bed where she could let the tears come, and not +have to push them back. + +She was glad, in a vague kind of way, when the auto slowed up at +the hospital entrance, and the Doctor lifted her out. They walked +up the flagging, hand in hand, the physician as silent as she. +She would have gone directly upstairs, but he drew her into his +office. + +"Now, what is it, Thistledown?" he asked gently, taking her in +his arms. + +She hid her face on his shoulder, and began to sob. + +He let the tears have their way for a time, resting his cheek +lightly on her curls. Finally he spoke again. + +"Is it about the ring, dear?" + +She nodded. + +"What have they been saying to you?" he questioned savagely. + +"N-nothing to me," she replied. "I--heard--Miss Curtis-- +and Miss Lucy--talking. Miss Curtis--she thinks I--oh, +dear!--she thinks I--took it! You don't think--I--took--" + +"_No!_" thundered the Doctor in so tremendous a voice that it +Polly had n't been in such depths of misery she would have laughed +outright. + +As it was, she caught his hand to her lips, and kissed it, saying, +"You scared me!" + +"Well, I'm sorry," he smiled; "but you must n't ask me such +questions about my Thistledown, if you don't want to hear me +roar." + +A wee giggle delighted his ears. + +"Now that's something like it!" he said. "Don't let's bother any +more about that ring. Probably we'll find it to-morrow. If we +don't, I'll buy Elsie another." + +A faint, uncertain rapping made the physician set Polly gently on +her feet, while he opened the door. Nobody was in sight, and he +kept on to the main entrance. + +A man stood outside, who deferentially removed his hat. + +"You b'long-a?" he asked. + +"Yes, I belong here. I am Dr. Dudley. Whom do you wish to +see?" + +"I play out-a here--af'-a-noon-a," with a sweep of his hand +towards the left. "Monkee--him ba-ad-a monkee! Him take-a-- +yours?" and he held out the missing ring. + +"Oh, yes, that is ours!" the Doctor exclaimed. "We have been +trying to find it.--Polly! Polly! Come here!" + +Polly obeyed, though slowly, because of her tears; but when she +recognized the organ grinder curiosity hastened her steps. + +Dr. Dudley put the ring in her hand. + +"Why--ee!" she cried joyously. "Elsie's ring! Oh, I'm so +glad!" + +"Him ba'ad-a monkee!" grinned the man. "Him go up-a, up-a-- +window op'n--him go in-a. I see nobodee--I pull-a so! Him +no come. I pull-a _so!_" and the man tugged hard on the imaginary +cord. "Him come. Him got-a ring-a in leetle han'--I no see! +I take-a pennees--so," and he went over a handful of invisible +coins,--"I see!" pointing to the ring. "Where get-a?" He +stared wildly around, to show how great had been his amazement. +"Ah-h!--him ba-ad-a monkee!--him get-a up-a beeg house-- +beeg seeck-house--yours!" He ended with a delighted grin, +which signified his pleasure in having his surmises come true. + +"We thank you very much indeed," responded Dr. Dudley earnestly, +putting his hand in his pocket. "Accept this for your trouble." +And he held out a quarter. + +"Ah-h, no! Him ba-ad-a monkee!" He waved his hands gracefully. + +He went away, however, carrying the coin, and grinning his +"Good-bye." + +"Was n't he funny?" laughed Polly, when the door was shut. "He +called this a sick-house!" + +"Why not a sick-house as well as a sick-bed?" the Doctor smiled. + +But Polly only laughed, gazing down happily on the little ring. + +"I'm so glad," she breathed. "Now Miss Curtis will know!" + +"Miss Lucy and I knew before," was the instant reply. "Better +run upstairs and let Elsie have it while it is still her +birthday." + +"Will you come, too?" + +"No; I'll let you and Miss Lucy do the honors. There are some +people I must see, and it is getting along towards sleep time. +Good-night, Thistledown!" He stooped for a kiss, and she clung to +him for a moment. + +"It is so nice that you did n't think I did!" she whispered. + +She tripled lightly upstairs, and across the ward to Miss Lucy's +side. She slipped the ring into her hand. + +The nurse stared her amazement. + +"The monkey went in at your window, and took it!" beamed Polly. +"The man's just brought it back! He never knew it till he +counted his money! OH, he told it so funny!" + +"Well!" ejaculated the nurse. Then the echoed Polly's own +words, "I'm so glad!" + +The children were pressing near, eager to know what was exciting +Miss Lucy and Polly. + +"Let's see if it fits your finger, Elsie!" taking the hand of +the astonished child. "Perfectly! It is a birthday present from +Dr. Dudley and me. We were going to give it to you directly after +tea; but when I looked for it, it was gone. Polly will tell you +the rest." + +And Polly did, imitating the organ grinder's words and gestures, +till her listeners were shaking with laughter. + +Elsie was too overpowered with joy to want to go to bed at all. + +"When the lights are out I can't see my ring!" she cried in +sudden dismay. + +"But you can feel it," returned Polly. + +"Oh! May I keep it on my finger all night long?" she asked +incredulously. + +"Certainly, dear," the nurse replied. + +That was enough. Without another word she allowed herself to be +undressed. + +The ward had been dark and quiet for at least two minutes when a +voice piped out, "Miss Lucy! OH, Miss Lucy!" + +"What is it, Elsie?" came the quick answer. + +"I just happened to think--you and Dr. Dudley and Polly and +the organ man and the monkey and everybody have been living such a +splendid story for my birthday! I did n't thank you half +enough!" + +"You have done just right, dear. All the thanks we wanted were +in your happy face. Now pleasant dreams!" + +With a glad good-night, Elsie settled back contentedly on her +pillow, the ring finger pressed against her cheek. And, at last, +the hush of sleep brooded over the convalescent ward. + + + +Chapter VII + +The Little Sad Lady + + +David grew strong steadily, but not so fast that Polly was allowed +to see him as soon as they both wished. When, at last, she went +up for a brief ten minutes, she was brimful of pleasure. + +"I want to know about the day you ran after Dr. Dudley for me," +began David, almost at once; "the time I was so sick. The Doctor +said you had a race, and enjoyed it. I don't see how you could +enjoy running your legs off for me; but it was awfully good of +you." + +"Why," cried Polly, "it was n't I that ran--at least, not +much; it was Lone Star." + +"Lone Star?" gasped David. "Polly! Do tell me quick!" + +"I am telling you," she laughed. "Lone Star, Colonel Gresham's +beautiful horse, did the running--the trotting, I mean--why, +David! What's the matter?" + +The boy's eyes had grown big with excitement, and his cheeks were +bright. + +"Go on!" he breathed. + +"That's about all. I saw I was n't going to make the Doctor +hear, and Colonel Gresham was right out there, and I told him how +--sick you were, and asked him to catch the Doctor. I never +thought of his taking me; but before I knew it I was in the buggy, +and we were flying down the street like mad! Oh, I do wish you +could have seen Lone Star go!" + +"Did he know it was I?" whispered David excitedly. + +"Lone Star--know?" and Polly's forehead puckered. "Oh," she +brightened, "you mean the Colonel! Why, yes, of course, he did! +That is, I told him--no, I did n't tell him much, though, till +we were coming home. But what difference does it make?" + +"Lots!" murmured David disappointedly. "I hoped he knew--oh, +I hoped he knew! Polly!"--and the doll-blue eyes grew mournful +--"He's my Uncle David!" + +"Colonel Gresham--your uncle?" Now Polly's eyes widened, too. + +"My mother's uncle." + +"Oh, is n't that splendid!" beamed Polly. "I should think he'd +have told me!" + +David lay quite still for a moment. When he spoke again it was on +an entirely different matter, and soon the ten minutes were up. + +"Did you know that David is related to Colonel Gresham?" Polly +asked, as she went downstairs with Dr. Dudley. + +"No; how?" + +Polly told, adding what she had learned of the family history. + +The Doctor shook his head sadly. + +"I would n't say anything about it to the children," he +cautioned her. "Such things are better left untalked of. David +is an unusual boy." + +"When can he come down in our ward?" she questioned. + +"Very soon, if he keeps on improving as fast as he has lately." + +As they halted at the foot of the stairs, the Doctor looked at his +watch. + +"Tired?" he queried. + +"Not a bit," she laughed. + +"Then we'll keep on," he smiled, taking her hand again. "There +is a lady I'd like you to see, one of my private patients." + +"A young lady?" + +"She has white hair." + +"Oh, an old lady!" + +"She is older than you and I." + +"We are not old at all." + +"And we never will grow old, will we?" twinkled the Doctor. + +"We shall have to, if we live long enough." + +"No, we won't; we'll always keep young." + +Polly was laughing, as they entered a corridor in an "L" of the +main building, a part of the hospital with which she was not +familiar; but she grew grave instantly, for the Doctor paused at a +door, and she realized that here was the lady they had come to +see. + +The introduction over, Polly found herself facing a worn little +woman, with weary gray eyes, who looked more small and frail in +contrast with the great oaken chair in which she was pillowed. +Mrs. Jocelyn, the Doctor had called her, and Polly like the sound +of the name; but she was not yet sure that she should like the +owner of it. The lady did not smile when she said, almost as if +having a visitor bored her:-- + +"So you are staying here at the hospital, Dr. Dudley tells me. +What do you find to do with yourself all day long?" + +Polly had the feeling that the little sad lady would never know +whether she returned an answer or not, for her eyes seemed to be +looking at something for away. Yet the reply was without +hesitation, and primly courteous. + +"I help Miss Lucy make the beds and dress the babies, and I dust +and I carry medicine and drinks of water. Then, when there is n't +anything to do to help, I read stories out loud, or tell them, and +we play quiet games." She paused, hunting for facts. "Oh and I +go auto riding with Dr. Dudley!" she broke out brightly. "That's +very nice. A And I've been to ride with Colonel Gresham!" she +smiled. "I like that, Lone Star was so splendid. Only David was +awfully sick, and I was afraid he'd die, and I kept thinking of +him. He said he would take me again some day." + +"My dear, I don't quite understand. David Gresham sick? What +David do you mean?" The little lady was waking up. + +"Oh, David Collins! He's upstairs in the ward. Colonel Gresham +took me to catch the Doctor." + +And Polly related the story of the chase. + +"Collins! Why, it was Jack Collins that Eva Gresham married-- +the Colonel's niece." + +"Yes; David has told me that Colonel Gresham is his mother's +uncle," Polly said simply. + +"Well, well! So he went after the Doctor for his grand-nephew-- +and did n't know it till it was all over with! What strange +things happen in this world! A pretty good joke on David +Gresham!" And the little sad lady actually smiled. Then she +sighed. "It is too bad! If they'd only make up! But they never +will. David is n't built on the make-up plan--or Eva either, I +fancy. Eva Gresham was a beautiful girl," she rambled on, +talking more to herself than to her interested listener. "She +lived with her uncle from the time her parents died, when she was +a tiny child. The Colonel idolized her." + +A bit of a break in the soft voice make a momentary pause in the +musing. Then it went on again. "He had nothing in the world +against Jack Collins, except that he was an artist, and poor. He +would n't have been poor, they say, if he had lived. His pictures +were beginning to sell at good prices." + +Suddenly she came back to Polly. + +"So the Colonel is going to take you driving again! Well, my +dear, you need n't be afraid he'll forget it; if he said he would, +he will. I declare, you look a good deal as Eva used to when she +was your age. She had just such golden hair and brown eyes." + +"David has blue eyes--the bluest I ever saw," observed Polly. + +"He probably favors his father," replied Mrs. Jocelyn. + +The Doctor's entrance put a stop to the talk, and presently Polly +said good-bye, and went upstairs. + +Not many days afterwards she was sent with a message to Mrs. +Jocelyn's nurse, and the little lady caught sight of her at the +door. + +"Can't you come in and stay a while?" she called. + +"I don't know," Polly hesitated, and she looked questioningly at +the nurse. + +"Yes, I wish you would," the young woman nodded. "I shall have +to be away for a quarter of an hour or so, and if you will stay +with Mrs. Jocelyn while I'm gone it will be an accommodation to +me." + +Polly seated herself smilingly. + +"I wonder if you are as happy as you look," the little white-haired +lady began. + +"Oh, I'm always happy!" responded Polly; "that is, here," she +added. "I could n't help being, it's so pleasant, and everybody +is so good to me." + +The dull gray eyes rested sadly on her. "Well, be happy while +you can be," their owner said. "When you get to be old you'll +forget what happiness feels like." + +"Oh, but I shan't ever grow old!" laughed Polly. "Dr. Dudley and +I are going to stay young!" + +The little lady shook her head, and then changed the subject. + +"How is David Collins getting on?" + +"He is ever so much better," answered Polly; "and is n't it too +bad? He's almost strong enough to come down into our ward, and +there is n't any room for him! I've had to go and sleep in Miss +Lucy's bed, so they could use my cot." + +"Is the hospital so full as that?" scowled Mrs. Jocelyn. "Dear +me, how many sick people there are!" + +"There are three or four waiting now to come down, ahead of +David," Poly went on. "I don't know what we shall do if he can't +come at all! We've planned so many things. He said he'd tell +part of the bedtime stories--oh, it was going to be lovely!" + +"Perhaps there'll be a place for him pretty soon," the little +lady responded. "Dr. Dudley says that you are a story-teller, +too." + +"Oh, yes! Some days the children keep me telling them all day +long." + +"Suppose you tell me one," invited the little lady. + +"Well," returned Polly, a bit doubtfully, and then stopped to +think over her list. "The Cherry-Pudding Story," which usually +insisted on being uppermost, would scarcely do this time, she +thought. It seemed to rollicking for this big, hushed room, with +only one sober-eyed listener. She hastily decided that none of +the cat stories were suitable, or fairy tales--"Oh!" she +suddenly dimpled, "I wonder if you would n't like the story that +David lent me. His aunt wrote it, and sent it to him. I read it +to Miss Lucy and the children. It is about little Prince Benito +and a wonderful flower." + +"I shall be pleased to hear it," was the polite reply. + +This seemed somewhat doubtful to Polly, used as she was to +enthusiastic responses. + +"Won't it tire you?" she hesitated. + +"I am always tired, little one. Perhaps the story will rest +me." + +"This I'll run right upstairs and get it," beamed Polly. "I +guess I can read it better than I can tell it. You don't mind +staying alone while I'm gone?" + +"No, indeed!" was the reply, yet she sighed after Polly had +disappeared. All the brightness of the room seemed to have +vanished. + +The little sad woman soon found herself watching for the light +returning footfalls, and she greeted the child with a faint smile. + +Polly read as she talked, naturally and with ease, and before she +had finished the first page of the story her listener had settled +herself comfortably among her pillows, a look of interest on her +usually spiritless face. + +It was a fanciful tale of a beautiful little prince who, by sowing +seeds of the Wonderful White Flower of Love, transformed his +father's kingdom, a country desolate from war and threatened by +famine and insurrection, into a land of prosperity and peace and +joy. + +At the last word, Polly, flushed with the spirit of the story, +looked up expectantly; but her listener's weary eyes seemed to be +studying the pattern of the dainty comfort across her lap. Sadly +Polly gathered together the scattered manuscript sheets, and +waited. + +"Thank you, dear," the little lady finally said; but the words +were spoken as with an effort. + +"I am afraid I have tired you," mourned Polly. + +"No, little one; you have only given me something to think of. +You read unusually well. Perhaps we'll have another story some +day. You don't need to stay, of you have anything else to do. I +shall want nothing until Miss Parkin comes." + +Polly felt that she was dismissed, yet she had promised the nurse +to remain. She hesitated a moment, and then said, "Good-bye," +and went out. She met Miss Parkin in the hall, and explained. + +Up in the ward, Miss Lucy was quick to see that Polly was +troubled. + +"How did the story go?" she asked. + +"I don't know," Polly sighed. "I guess she did n't like it, +'cause she seemed to be thinking about something else, and she +said I need n't stay any longer. I thought it would make her +happier," she lamented, "and all it did was to tire her!" +Polly's eyes were brimming over with tears. + +"Never mind, dear," said Miss Lucy comfortingly. "You did your +part, and as well as you could; that's all any of us can do. So +don't worry about it. There's Brida looking this way, as if she +were just longing to talk with you." + +"She shan't wait another minute," smiled, and off she skipped, +to make Brida and her followers merry. + + + +Chapter VIII + +A warning From Aunt Jane + + +Towards noon came a telephone call for Polly to go down to Dr. +Dudley's office. Usually she sped gladly to obey such a summons; +now she was assailed by a sudden fear. + +"Have I made her very much worse?" was her instant inquiry, as +the Doctor opened his door? + +"Made whom worse?" he questioned. + +"Why, Mrs. Jocelyn!" + +"I have heard nothing from her. What is it?" + +Polly told of her visit and of the reading. + +"Is that all!" the Doctor laughed. "Don't worry about it any +more, little girl! Your stories are not the kind that harm +people. What did you read? One that I know?" + +"I don't think so," Polly replied. "I did n't tell you about +Prince Benito, did I?" + +The physician shook his head. "Suppose you tell it to me now," +he suggested. + +So, perched comfortably upon the arm of his chair, Polly related +the story of "The Wonderful White Flower." + +"I see," he mused, as Polly stopped speaking. He was silent a +moment. Then he went on. + +"Mrs. Jocelyn lost her only child, a beautiful little boy, when +he was eight years old. It is not unlikely that this story +awakened tender memories." + +"I'm sorry I made her feel bad," grieved Polly. + +"I would n't be if I were you." + +A "Why!" of wonder was rounding Polly's lips, as the physician +continued:-- + +"Perhaps you have done Mrs. Jocelyn more good than you will ever +know. Since her husband and little boy died she has shut people +out of her life, seldom leaving her home, and rarely entertaining +a guest. From what she has said to me I judge that she has +allowed herself to brood over her sorrows till she has become +bitter and melancholy. Let's hope that your little story will +open her eyes." + +"Does she live all alone when she is home?" queried Polly. + +"Alone with her servants." + +"Oh, then she is n't poor! I thought she must be." + +Dr. Dudley smilingly shook his head. "She has more money than +probably you or I will ever handle, little girl; but we'll have +better riches than gold, won't we?" + +"Yes; you'll make people well, and I'll try to make them happy," +returned Polly, a sweet seriousness on her usually merry face. "I +wish I could make everybody in the world happy," she added. + +"That is too big a job for one little Thistledown," laughed Dr. +Dudley. "There!" he exclaimed, "I nearly forgot what I called +you down for! Colonel Gresham hailed me out here, and asked if +you could go to Forest Park, this afternoon, with him and Lone +Star. I said yes. Was that all right? + +"Of course!" beamed Polly. "Is n't it lovely of him to ask me? +Had I better tell him that David is better?" + +"Not unless he inquires," the Doctor answered. "He said he would +be here at three o'clock. You can come down a little before that, +and keep a lookout for him, so as not to make him wait." + +Polly was on hand, in the Doctor's office, while it still lacked +fifteen minutes of the hour; but the Colonel was early, and the +waiting time was short. Very sweet she looked, as she ran down +the stone walk to the street, in her dainty new white dress with +simple ruffles edging neck and sleeves. In the delight of the +moment Polly did not forget the children up an the ward windows, +but waved them a gay good-bye, while Colonel Gresham greeted the +bobbing heads with a graceful swing of his straw hat. + +There was not much talk at first, for the way to the park lay +through the heart of the city; but Polly was content silently to +watch the changing throngs around them. + +Suddenly the Colonel drew up his horse in response to call from +the sidewalk, and presently was in a business talk with the man +who arrested him. + +"I shall have to leave you for a moment," he said, at length, +turning to Polly. "I'll be back shortly." And, having fastened +Lone Star, he disappeared up a stairway. + +Polly was enjoying this little break, when she caught sight of a +well-known face. "It's Aunt Jane!" she murmured, and was +promptly seized with a desire to hide. Breathlessly she watched +the woman in the black dress, hoping for escape from those ferret +eyes; but the horse and carriage were conspicuous, and Aunt Jane's +glance fell first on Lone Star and then passed to the little girl +upon the seat. + +"Polly May!" she exclaimed, and Polly smiled a somewhat +uncertain greeting. + +"How in the world did you come here?" twanged the remembered +voice. + +"Colonel Gresham is taking me to ride," was the explanation, +"and he's gone upstairs a minute." + +"Colonel Gresham! Goodness gracious me! Well, you are coming up +in the world! Why hain't you been round to see me?" + +"I'm--pretty busy," answered Polly, "I--" + +"Busy! Huh, you must be! Well, so'm I busy, or I should 'a' +been up after you before this. Guess you've stayed at that +hospital 'bout long enough. You might 's well be helpin' me as +gallivantin' round with Tom, Dick, and Harry." + +"I--thought I was going to stay all summer," faltered Polly. + +"I did n't make no special agreement, and now there's cannin' and +picklin' and what-not to do, I could keep you out o' mischief +easy. Where'd you get that dress?" + +"Miss Lucy bought it for me." + +"She did, hey? Well, 't ain't hurt with trimmin', is it?" + +The Colonel appearing at the moment, Aunt Jane made a rather +hurried departure, while she assured Polly that she would "be +round before long." + +"Who is that woman?" inquired Colonel Gresham. + +"My Aunt Jane," was the soft answer. + +"What's her other name?" + +"Mrs. Simpson. Uncle Gregory--that was her husband--was +killed when the building fell, and I was hurt." + +"Oh, yes! I recollect. Well, is Aunt Jane good to you? Do you +love her very much?" + +Polly waived the first question, and proceeded to the second. +"I'm afraid I don't love her at all," she replied honestly. "Of +course, I ought to; but I don't." + +"It is mighty hard to love some folks," meditated the Colonel. "I +think I should rather do a season's ploughing than to attempt to +love that Aunt Jane." + +Polly smiled, and then returned to the question she had left +behind. "I guess she's pretty good to me," she said. "She never +whipped me." + +"Whipped you!" the Colonel exclaimed. "I should hope not!" + +"Aunts do whip sometimes," Polly nodded soberly. "Bessie +Jackson's aunt whipped her--awful! I'd run away!" + +"Yes," the Colonel agreed, "that would be the best thing in such +a case--though perhaps this Bessie deserved the whipping." + +"No, she did n't!" Polly assured him. + +"Well, now, I'll tell you," he went on confidentially, "if +anybody ever lays a finger on you, just you come to my house, and +I'll see that you are treated all right. Remember that now!" + +Polly chuckled a "thank you," and Colonel Gresham began talking +about the park, the entrance of which they were nearing. + +Polly tried to put Aunt Jane from her mind; but the threatened +possibilities kept thrusting themselves into the Colonel's merry +speeches, until she scarcely comprehended what he was saying. +Little by little, however, the beauties of her surroundings +overpowered all else, and Aunt Jane was for the time almost +forgotten. + +The wise men who had planned Forest Park had known better than to +try to improve on nature's handiwork, and rocks and ravines, +brooks and pools, wooded slopes and ferny tangles, were left +practically unchanged. Polly loved birds and flowers and all the +scents and sounds of summer fields and woods, and now, as the air +came laden with faint perfume, and a carol burst into the +stillness, she clasped her little hands together with a soft +breath of delight. + +Colonel Gresham watcher her in furtive silence. Finally she +turned towards him. + +"I should think it would make sick people well to come out, here +should n't you?" + +"Some of them," he nodded. + +"I'm going to tell Mrs. Jocelyn all about it. Perhaps it would +make her happier if she's come." + +"What Mrs. Jocelyn is that?" asked the Colonel. + +"I don't know her other name. The one that's at the hospital-- +she's small, and has white hair. Her husband and little boy +died." + +"Oh, yes! Juliet Jocelyn, probably; but I did n't know that she +was sick." + +"She's had an operation, I think; but she's getting well now. +I've been to see her twice. Yesterday I read her a story." + +"I hope she appreciated it," observed the Colonel dryly. + +"I'm not sure," Polly replied; "she did n't say. Do you know +Mrs. Jocelyn?" + +"I knew her a long time ago," was the grave answer, as he turned +his horse into the road that wound up the eastern side of the +mountain. + +"Oh, you're going to take the Cliff Drive!" cried Polly +delightedly. "Dr. Dudley could n't go, because they won't let +autos up there." + +"No, for one might meet a skittish horse. I like to come up here +once in a while for the view." + +"I'm not going to look till we get clear up," Polly declared. +And resolutely she kept her eyes the other way. + +"Now!" announced Colonel Gresham. + +Polly turned her head--and held her breath. Then she let it +out in one long sigh of rapture. + +Before them lay the city, glittering in the afternoon sunshine, +while beyond, to the north and east and south, green hills formed +a living frame for the picture. + +"It is worth coming for," said the Colonel, at last. "There is +your home--see?" + +"Oh, yes! It looks like a castle in a forest." + +And then--when joy was uppermost--Aunt Jane's threat crowded +in. + +Polly's eyes wandered from the "castle" in the direction of the +home she dreaded. + +Colonel Gresham noted the sudden shadow on the bright face, and +took up the reins. + +On the way back they stopped at a confectioner's, and the Colonel +brought out a package and laid it on Polly's lap. "There is +something to remember the drive by," he said. + +"Oh, thank you!" she beamed. "But I don't need anything more to +make me remember it," she added. "It has been beautiful--right +straight through!--Except Aunt Jane!" she put in honestly, under +her breath, and again her face was shadowed. + +"It is the best way," observed the Colonel, "to let disagreeable +things slip off our shoulders at once. If we should carry them +all, we should have a sorry load." + +"I guess I'll do that way," smiled Polly; "but Aunt Jane don't +slip easy!" + +"Shake her off," laughed the Colonel, "and she'll go!" + +It was a happy moment up in the ward when Polly opened her box of +candy. Such chocolates, such candied cherries and strawberries, +with tiny tongs to lift them with, the children had never seen. +They chose one apiece all round, which Miss Lucy said was enough +for that day, and Polly carried the box down to the Doctor's +office, that he might taste her sweets. It never occurred to her +that she was entitled to more than the others. + +Dr. Dudley heard all about the drive, but nothing of Aunt Jane. +Polly had decided to take the Colonel's advice--if she could, +and she recollected with relief that Aunt Jane was always more +ready to threaten than to perform. + +A few days afterwards Dr. Dudley early for Polly. + +"Anyway it is n't Aunt Jane at this time," she assured herself, +as she ran downstairs. + +"Mrs. Jocelyn wants to see you right away," the Doctor told her. + +"She does?" wondered Polly. "Do you know for what?" + +"I don't _know_ anything," he smiled; "but I _guess_ a good +deal." + +"Oh! What do you guess it is?" she entreated. + +He shook his head laughingly. "I should hate to have you discover +that I was n't a good guesser," he said. "Run along, and find +out for sure!" + +Polly was astonished to see how greatly the little lady had +changed. Her cheeks reflected the delicate pink of the robe she +was wearing, and her eyes were glad. Her voice was full of +eagerness. + +"Here comes the little sunbeam!" she smiled. "Did I interrupt +any tasks or play?" She drew Polly within the circle of her arm. +"I could n't wait another moment to thank you for reading me that +story of the little price. It brought back my own little Lloyd, +who was always planting those seeds of love wherever he went. But +since he left me I have been like that forgetful queen mother, too +wrapped up in myself to think of others. Now I am going to begin +to grow those 'wonderful white flowers.'" Her eyes shone through +tears. + +Polly did not know what to say; she only looked her sympathy and +appreciation. + +"Tell me about David," the little lady went on. "Is he well +enough to come downstairs?" + +"Yes, he's all ready," was the reply; "but he's go to wait for +somebody to go. Elsie was to leave to-day to to-morrow; but she +needs a little more treatment, Dr. Dudley says. So I don't know +when David can come." + +"I know!" responded Mrs. Jocelyn confidently. "He is coming down +to the convalescent ward--let me see, I think it may be this +afternoon, but to-morrow morning sure!" + +"Wh-y! how can he?" gasped Polly. "There are three ahead of +him, and there are n't any more beds!" + +"There will be before long," chuckled the little lady gaily. "I +have been having a bit of a talk with Dr. Dudley, and he tells me +that there is plenty of room in your ward for six or more cots-- +and Polly May is going to buy them! That is, she can if she +chooses." + +Polly's face was one big interrogation point. "Why! I don't--" +she began, but was interrupted by a kiss right on her lips. + +"Oh, you dear, precious little innocent!" cried Mrs. Jocelyn. +"Read that, and see if it will tell you anything!" She took a +strip of paper from the table, and put it into Polly's hand. + +Across the top, in large letters, was the name of a back. The +rest was partly printed and partly written. Polly read +wonderingly:-- + + Pay to the order of Polly May Three Hundred Dollars. + Juliet P. Jocelyn. + +"O-o-h!" and Polly's face was beautiful in its joy; "does this +mean that you're going to give me three hundred dollars to buy +some new cots with?" + + "It means that the money is your own to use exactly as you +please." The little lady was scarcely less excited than the +child. Giving was to her almost an untried pleasure. + +"Oh, I can't, I can't, I can't thank you enough! It is so +lovelicious!" Then Polly threw her arms around the happy donor in +a way that would have made her cry out with actual pain if she had +not been too delighted to realize it. + +"I think that will cover the cost of six or seven cots, equipped +for use," said Mrs. Jocelyn,--"that is, if you wish to spend +the money for them." The gray eyes actually twinkled. + +"Why, of course I do!" cried Polly. "What else could I do with +it?" + +"_You_ could n't, you blessed child! So we'll have David +downstairs just as soon as his bed is ready, won't we?" + +"Yes, and how glad he'll be! Oh, how glad he'll be! And Brida +and Elsie--they've been dreadfully afraid they'd have to go +home before he came down; they want to see him so! Won't they be +pleased!" + +"I want to see David, too," declared the little lady, "and he +must come down with you as soon as his is strong enough--unless +I get well first," she laughed. "I feel almost well now." + +Polly beamed her delight, and presently was racing upstairs to +tell her good news to everybody. + +Dr. Dudley managed to get away before noon for the pleasant errand +of purchasing the beds, and Polly was overflowing with bliss. She +had her choice in everything, with the Doctor and the merchant as +advisers; and although the bill footed up to a little more than +the check, the difference was struck off, and the cots and bedding +promised to be at the hospital by two o'clock that afternoon. + +The convalescent ward was in such an ecstasy of excitement that +dinner went poorly; but finally it was cleared away, and the cots +moved to make room for those were coming. Everybody helped that +could walk--even those that had to hobble on crutches, for +there were many little things to do, and only a short time to do +them in. Polly was Miss Lucy's ready right hand, with always a +flock of eager assistants. When the beds were actually in place +and the men had gone away, came the delightful task of spreading +on the sheets and blankets and pretty coverlets. All was in +readiness before the hour specified, and then there was nothing to +do but wait for the coming of the new patients. + +At last there were footsteps on the stairs, uneven footsteps, as +of one bearing a burden--the children had started! David was +the last, and Polly had begun to be troubled, lest, after all, +something might have delayed him until another day. But there he +was, smiling to her, and waving a thin little hand in greeting. +Polly wished that Mrs. Jocelyn could be there to see it all. When +David was finally in bed, with Polly by his side, he said:-- + +"Now, tell me all about it, please! It was such a splendid +surprise!" + +So Polly told just how it had happened, and talked and kept on +talking, until she suddenly discovered that David was looking a +little weary--though he insisted that he was not tired. But in +her motherly way, that was the delight of the ward, she bade him +shut his eyes and "go right to sleep," giving his hand a final +caressing pat, and then running away to let him have a chance to +follow her injunction. + + + +Chapter IX + +A Night of Song + + +David had been nearly three whole days in the convalescent ward, +taking big leaps on the road to health, when Polly was summoned to +Dr. Dudley's office. Since her meeting with Aunt Jane, the +sharp-voiced woman was ever close at hand, ready instantly to +appear in the little girl's thought and fill her with sickening +fear. Now Polly's feet lagged as she went downstairs; she dreaded +to look into the office. But Dr. Dudley was there quite alone, +smiling a blithe good-morning. + +"Miss Price wishes you assistance in the care of a patient," he +began. + +"Wh-y!" breathed Polly, "How funny--for her to want me!" + +"She is nursing Burton Leonard," the physician explained, "a +little six-year-old boy who was operated upon yesterday for +appendicitis. His life depends on his being quiet, but he will +not keep still. Miss Price thinks you can help out by telling him +a story or two, something that will make him forget, if possible, +how terribly thirsty he is." + +"Can't he have anything to drink?" questioned Polly, with a +sympathetic little frown. + +"Only an occasional sip of warm water--nothing cold." + +"I'll do my best," she promised. "I shall love to help, if I +can." + +Dr. Dudley took her hand, and down the corridor they went, the one +with long strides, the other on dancing feet. + +Master Burton stared at his visitor, his big black eyes looking +bigger in a contrast with the white, drawn little face. + +"What you come for?" he asked fretfully. + +"To see you," smiled Polly. + +"I do' want to be seen," was the unexpected reply, and he pulled +the sheet over his head. + +Polly laughed, and waited. + +Presently the black eyes again appeared. + +"Why don't you lie abed?" he whined. + +"I did till I got well." + +"Did they make you lie still?" he questioned. + +"Yes, I had to keep very still indeed." + +"I don't," he whispered, glancing towards the Doctor, who was +just passing out. "When they ain't lookin' I wriggle round!" + +"You'd get well quicker if you'd do just as Miss Price and Dr. +Dudley tell you," advised Polly. + +"Huh! My mamma says nobody on earth can make me mind!" He +beckoned her nearer. "Say," he chuckled, "she put an ice bag on +me," with a wink towards the nurse, "_and I got out some o' the +ice!_ It's awful good! She would n't give me a drop o' water, +only horrid old warm stuff." He showed his tongue, with a bit of +ice upon it. + +Polly was shocked. In the light of what the physician had told +her, she realized that the boy was ignorantly thwarting the +efforts of those who were trying to save his life. She did not +know what to say." + +"Do you like stories?" she finally asked. + +The lad looked surprised, but answered, "Some kinds. Why?" + +"I thought I'd tell you one, if you'd like me to." + +"Do you know one 'bout soldiers?" + +"I don't believe I do; but I know a song about a soldier." + +"Can you sing?" + +"Yes." + +"Sing, then." + +"Will you lie still if I will?" asked Polly. + +"It's a go!" + +So Polly sang the old, old song of "The Drummer Boy of +Waterloo," one that her grandmother had taught her when she was a +wee girl. + +The boy was true to his promise, and remained motionless until the +last note ceased. + +"Sing it again!" he commanded. "That's a dandy!" + +Twice, three times more, the sad little ditty was sung; then the +sweet voice slipped softly into Holland's "Lullaby," which had +been learned from hearing it sung by Miss Lucy to restless little +patients. + + "Rockaby, lullaby, bees in the clover, + Crooning so drowsily, crying so low. + Rockaby, lullaby, dear little rover, + Down into wonderland, + Down to the underland, + Down into wonderland go! + + "Rockaby, lullaby, dew on the clover! + Dew on the eyes that will sparkle at dawn. + Rockaby, lullaby, dear little rover, + Into the stilly world, + Into the lily world. + Into the lily world gone!" + +Before Polly reached the last word the song had died almost to a +breath, for Burton was "gone"--fast asleep. For a time she +watched him. His breathing was slow and steady. Finally she +slipped softly from her chair, and glanced across the room. Miss +Price nodded and smiled, and Polly tip-toed towards the door, +beckoning her to follow. + +Outside, in the corridor, the nurse heard of the mischievous act +of her little patient. + +"I did n't think he would do that!" sighed Miss Price, and she +shook her head gravely. "You are right to tell me at once," she +went on; "but I will not let Burton know that I learned of it +through you. Thank you for coming down. You may like to hear," +she added, as Polly was starting away, "that I had good news from +Turkey this morning. MY sister is better; they think she is going +to get well." + +"Oh, I'm so glad!" beamed Polly. Then impulsively, she put up +her arms, and the next minute they were around the neck of Miss +Hortensia Price. + +This time she felt sure that the stately nurse did like kisses, +else why should she return them so cordially, and presently Polly +was skipping upstairs, full of gladness that her service had been +a success. + +That night, in the hour before bedtime, David was entertainer. +Polly had promised the children delightful stories from him, and +now he made good her word. He chose for his recital something of +his aunt's that Polly had never heard, the true account of how +some little trickey Southern boys obtained a pet goat. David had +shown his wisdom in making his first selection a story that would +please the crowd. The children laughed and laughed over it, and +begged for another. The second was as unlike the first as +possible. It was about a little princess who was carried into +captivity by some rough people, and who won the hearts of +everybody, even those of her captors, by her gentleness and love, +and who finally, through her brave unselfishness, found her way to +freedom and happiness. + +"I'd love to be like that Princess Yvonne," sighed Polly. + +It was in David's heart to say, "You are more nearly like her +than any girl I ever saw," but the words were not spoken. He +only smiled across to Miss Lucy, who sent him a smile of +comprehension in return. The two had quickly learned to +understand each other without words. + +"It is so hard always to love everybody," Polly went on. She was +thinking of Aunt Jane. "Do you love everybody, Miss Lucy,--every +single body?" + +The nurse laughed softly. "I'm afraid I sometimes find it a +difficult task," she admitted; "but even when we dislike people, +or do not exactly love them, we can wish them well, and be ready +to do them kindness whenever it is possible. And we can usually +find something lovable in everybody, if we look for it deep enough +and long enough." + +There was a moment's hush, and then Elsie piped out:-- + +"David, can't you tell another story, please?" + +"It is pretty nearly bedtime," Miss Lucy suggested. "If we have +one, it must be short." + +"Oh, David, sing a song--do!" begged Polly. + +"Can he sing?" queried Cornelius wonderingly. + +"Beautifully!" answered Polly. + +"You don't know!" laughed David. + +"You never heard me." + +"Yes, I do know!" insisted Polly. "They would n't let you sing +solos at St. Paul's Church if you did n't sing well--so!" + +The children waited in astonished silence. This was an +accomplishment of David's which had not been told them. + +Miss Lucy propped him up a little higher among his pillows, and +then he began the sweet vesper hymn, "The King of Love my +Shepherd is." + +The children were very quiet until they were sure that the singing +was over. Then Brida voiced everybody's thought. + +"Was n't that beautiful!" + +Presently Polly was going about her little nightly tasks humming +the melody to herself. She was quick to catch an air, and with a +bit of prompting from David she soon had the words. + +"Oh, you David can sing it to us together to-morrow night!" +cried Elsie, and there was a responsive chorus from all over the +ward. + +Polly went to sleep singing the hymn in her heart. + +Miss Lucy's cot was nearest the door, and shortly after midnight +she waked with the sound of a rap in her ears. Hastily throwing +on a robe which was always at hand, she answered with a soft, +"What is it?" + +"Burton Leonard is worse," came in Dr. Dudley's low voice, "and +he wants Polly to sing to him. Get her ready as quick as you can, +please." + +The little girl was dreaming of Aunt Jane. She was trying to hold +a tall ladder straight up in the air, while Aunt Jane climbed to +the top, and her aunt was fretting because she did not keep it +steady. "Oh, I can't hold on a minute longer!" Polly dreamed she +was saying to herself. "But I must! I must! Because Miss Lucy +said we were to do kindness for anybody we did n't love!" + +Then she roused enough to know that Miss Lucy was bending over +her, whispering: + +"Polly dear! Can you wake up?" + +"Oh! David?" Polly's first thought was for her friend. + +"No, darling; David's all right. Dr. Dudley wants you to come +down and sing to little Burton Leonard." + +"Oh, of course I'll go!" Polly was wide awake now, and ready for +anything. + +She and Miss Lucy made speedy work of the dressing. Dr. Dudley +was outside the door waiting for her, and quietly they went +downstairs. + +"I'll have to sing pretty soft; shan't I?" she questioned; "or +it will disturb the other folks." + +"Yes," the physician agreed. "But the room is rather isolated +anyway, and the end of the wing. There's nobody near that there +'s any danger of harming." + +"Hullo!" came in a weak little voice, as Polly entered the +doorway. "I told 'em I'd keep still of you'd sing to me; but I +did n't b'lieve you'd come. I thought you'd be too sleepy." + +The boy's mother was nervously smoothing his pillow, but at a word +from the physician she retired to a seat beside the nurse. + +A small electric light glowed at the other end of the apartment, +and the night wind blew in at the open window, fluttering the +leaves of a magazine that lay near. Polly felt awed by the hush +of seriousness that seemed to fill the room. Although the Doctor +spoke in his usual tone, the voices of the others scarcely rose +above a whisper. She was glad when Dr. Dudley took her upon his +knee. His encircling arm gave her instant cheer. + +"Sing 'bout the 'Drummer Boy'!" begged the sick child, +plaintively, and there was something in his tone that gave Polly a +pang of fear. How different from his commands of the morning! + +Ver soft was the singing, as if in keeping with the occasion and +the hour, yet every ward was clear. + +From "The Drummer Boy" Polly slipped easily into "The Star-Spangled +Banner," "America," "Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean," and "The +Battle Hymn of the Republic." Then came two or three negro melodies +and some songs she had learned at school, at the end of which Dr. +Dudley whispered to her to stop and rest. + +While she was singing, the sick boy had lain motionless; but now +he began to nestle, and called fretfully, "Water! Water! Do give +me some water!" + +The nurse fetched a glass, but as soon as he discovered that it +was warm, he would not taste it. + +"Sing more!" he pleaded. + +So again Polly sang, beginning with "My Old Kentucky Home," and +then charming the Doctor with one of his favorites, "'Way down +upon the Swanee Ribber." "Annie Laurie" came next, then "Those +Evening Bells," and other old songs which her grandmother had +taught her. + +"I'm afraid you're getting too tired," Dr. Dudley told her; but +she smilingly shook her head, and sang on. + +Once or twice the lad drowsed, and she stopped for a bit of a +rest, until his insistent, "Sing more!" roused her from a +momentary dream. + +The mother sat a little apart, but kept her eyes on her boy's +face, ready for instant service. + +Several times the physician reached over to feel his patient's +pulse, and seemed satisfied with what he found. + +So the night dragged by. + +It was early dawn when Miss Price, in answer to the repeated call, +again fetched water, and, as before, the child refused it. + +"Take away that nasty old hot stuff, and bring me some cold!" he +commanded, with a spurt of his usual lordliness. + +The nurse gently urged him to taste it; but he only pushed the +spoon away. + +Dr. Dudley was about to speak, when Polly interposed with the +first lines of "The Secret," a little song she had learned in +her last days of school. Her voice was loud enough to catch the +boy's attention, but the words were sung slowly and confidentially. + + "What do you think is in our back yard? + P'rhaps you can guess, if you try real hard. + It is n't a puppy, or little white mice, + But it's something that's every bit as nice! + Oh, no, it's not chickens or kittens at all!" + +She broke off, her eyes smilingly meeting Burton's. + +"What is it?" he asked feebly. + +"Take some of that," she replied, pointing to the cup, and I'll +sing "the rest." + +He frowned at her, as she leaned back on the Doctor's shoulder. +In her attitude he saw nothing of hope, unless he complied with +her requirement. Without another protest he swallowed a few +spoonfuls of liquid. + + "Can't you think what is soft and round and small? + It's two little--somethings, as white as snow! + _Two dear baby rabbits!_--there, now--you know!" + +"Sing it again!" he begged. + +Soon his eyelids dropped together, but as the song was ended he +opened them wide, with a silent appeal for more. + +So the tired little girl sang the lullaby that had put him to +sleep early the day before. This time it did not have the +hoped-for effect, and the vesper hymn which David had sung--at +the bedtime hour which now seemed so very far away--came to the +singer's mind. Softly she began the tender little song, going +through it without a break. + +At its close the boy lay quite still, and with a sight of relief +her bright head dropped on the pillowing shoulder. + +The Doctor leaned forward, and listened. The lad's breathing was +soft and regular. + +"Sound asleep at last! Now, Thistledown--a-h!" he gasped, +for Polly lay on his arm, a limp little heap. + +With great strides he carried her to the window. + +The nurse reached the couch as soon as he, and thrust the globule +into his hand. + +Crushing it in his handkerchief, he passed it before the child's +nostrils, and with a little fluttering breath the brown eyes +opened. + +"I guess--I--was--a little tired," Polly said brokenly. + +"You were faint--that's all. Don't try to talk." + +Miss Price brought some medicine in a glass, and Polly obediently +swallowed the draught. + +"Is she all right now?" whispered Mrs. Leonard, who had been +standing back, frantically clasping and unclasping her nervous +little hands. + +The nurse nodded. "For a minute I was afraid--she is not very +strong; but it was only a faint." + +"If anything had happened, I should never forgiven myself for +letting her sing so long! But did n't he go off to sleep +beautifully. Just look at him--still as a mouse!" And the two +moved nearer the bed. + +Polly went upstairs in Dr. Dudley's arms. + +"I can--walk," she murmured. + +"No; I want the pleasure of carrying you," was the light +response, and for answer a soft little hand stroked his own. + +Miss Lucy met them at the door of the ward, and her face was white +with fear. + +"She was tired and a little faint," the Doctor explained. "I +thought I'd better bring her up." + +"Don't worry--Miss Lucy!" smiled Polly. "I'm--all right." +She sighed softly, as her head touched the pillow. + +"Precious child!" murmured the nurse, and then followed the +Doctor to the door. + +"Has she been singing all this time?" Reproach was in the gentle +tone. + +He bowed. "I know! It was too severe a strain. But she did n't +seem very tired until just at the last--and it has probably +saved the boy's life." + +"That is good--if it has n't hurt her," Miss Lucy added +anxiously. + +"I think not," he replied. "She seems to be all right now. She +will probably sleep late from exhaustion. Do you suppose you can +keep the children quiet?" + +"Quiet! Bless them! They won't stir, if they know it is going to +disturb Polly!" + +Dr. Dudley laughed softly. "Don't let her get up till I come," +he charged her. "I'll be in early." And he turned away. + +Miss Lucy undressed Polly so gently that she did not awake. Then +she sat by her side until broad daylight. The children were still +asleep around her, when her name was whispered across the ward. + +David was sitting up in bed, his face shadowed with fear. + +"What's the matter with Polly?" he questioned. + +Miss Lucy told briefly the incident of the night, and he lay down +again, but not to sleep. If the nurse so much as stirred, David +was always looking her way. + +The ward was greatly excited at the news; but Miss Lucy had been +true in her predictions. Never had such noiseless toilets been +made within its walls. Everybody went about on tiptoe, and +Leonora Hewitt would not walk at all, lest the thump of her crutch +on the floor might waken Polly. + +The little girl was still asleep when Dr. Dudley came, but soon +afterward she opened her eyes to find him at her side. Almost her +first words were an inquiry about Burton Leonard. + +"He is very much better," the Doctor replied. "He wanted me to +tell you not to worry about him to-day, for he would keep still +without your singing. I did n't know there was such good stuff in +him. He has been angelic, Miss Price says, ever since he heard +that you were tired out. That seemed to touch his little heart. +He called you 'a dandy girl.' You have quite won him over." + +"I'm glad," smiled Polly. "I guess I can sing a little for him +to-day, if he needs me." + +"You won't!" Dr. Dudley replied. "You are to stay in bed, Miss +Polly May! When young ladies are out all night they must lie abed +the next day." + +"All day long?" she queried. + +"Yes." + +Polly sighed a bit of a sigh; then she smiled again. + +"I may talk, may n't I?" she begged. + +"Not many bedside receptions to-day," he answered. "I want you +to sleep all you can." + +With a little chuckle she shut her eyes tight. "Good-night!" she +said demurely. + +"That is a gentle hint for me to go," the Doctor laughed. Then +he bent for a whisper in her ear. "If you sleep enough to-day, I +think we'll have a ride to-morrow." + +She opened her eyes, returned a happy "thank you," and then +cuddled down on her pillow. + + + +Chapter X + +The Ward's Anniversary + + +The convalescent ward was generally a happy place, for everybody +was getting well, and getting well is pleasant business. Just now +it was at its best. The majority of the children had lived +together long enough to be loyal friends, and there were no +discordant dispositions. In fact, discords knew better than to +push in where Miss Lucy reigned. Her gentle tack had proved quite +sufficient for any disagreeable element that had yet appeared in +the ward, and lately all had been harmony. The nurse would have +told you that this was greatly due to Polly May, and Polly would +have insisted it was entirely Miss Lucy's work; but as long as +happiness was there nobody cared whence it came. + +David Collins was a decided acquisition; the ward agreed in that. + +"He can tell stories almost as well as Polly," declared Elsie +Meyer to a knot of her chosen intimates. + +"Not qui-te," objected loyal little Brida, glancing over her +shoulder to make sure that they were far enough away from the ears +of the boy under discussion. + +"I did n't say quite," returned Elsie, in a lover voice, "I said +almost. 'Course, nobody tells 'em so good as Polly--she's +'special!" + +"But David is a dandy fine feller!" asserted Cornelius. "He can +play ball, reg'lar baseball! A college feller on a team showed +him how!" + +"Wisht I could play ball," sighed Leonora Hewitt, a bit +dejectedly. + +"Girls don't play baseball!" laughed Cornelius. + +"They do some kinds anyway--I used to!" And again Leonora +sighed. It is hard to be shut out from things when you are only +ten. + +"I would n't care, if I were you," comforted Elsie, in a way +that showed her to be an unconscious pupil of her adored Polly. +She threw an arm around the little girl who the Doctor feared +would never walk again on two strong feet. "There's lots of +things better than playing ball." + +"What?" demanded Cornelius, with more curiosity than +thoughtfulness. + +Elsie flashed him a look that meant, "How can you?" for +Cornelius had been able to throw aside his own helps to walking. +Then she answered triumphantly, "Playing with dolls--for one +thing!" + +"Dolls!" echoed Cornelius, laughing "Ho, ho! Dolls!" + +"Well, I don't care, they are! Ain't they, Miss Lucy?" + +"What is it, Elsie?" smiled the nurse across from her desk. "I +was n't noticing." + +"Dolls--ain't dolls more fun that playing ball?" + +"That depends," answered Miss Lucy. "Cornelius or Moses would no +doubt enjoy a game of ball better than the prettiest doll that +ever was made; but you and Leonora and Corinne, for instance, +would be unusual little girls if you did n't like dolls best." + +Elsie and Cornelius faced each other with good-natured laughter. + +"But I hain't got any doll," lamented Leonora. + +"Nary a ball!" declared Cornelius, striking his reast +dramatically. "So we're even!" + +"My doll's 'most worn out," mourned Elsie. "Guess it will be +quite by the time I get home, with Rosie and Esther bangin' it +round." + +"I want my dolly! I want my dolly!" piped up little Isabel. +"Where's my dolly?" + +"Oh! May I get her the doll, Miss Lucy?" cried Elsie, running +over to the chest of drawers where the ward's few playthings were +kept. + +Isabel trotted after, her face shining with expectation. + +Barely waiting for the desired permission, Elsie dived down into the +lower drawer, and, after a brief search among torn picture-books +and odds and ends of broken toy, brought forth a little battered +rubber doll, which had lost most of its coloring and all of its cry. +But Baby Isabel hugged it to her heart, and at once dropped to the +floor, crooning over her new treasure. + +While the ward was thus discussing dolls, Mrs. Jocelyn and Polly, +downstairs, in the little lady's room, were conversing on the same +subject. + +It was Polly's first visit since the night she had sung to Burton +Leonard, and they had talked of that any many other things. + +"It is too bad for you to be shut up in a hospital all this +beautiful summer," lamented Mrs. Jocelyn. "If I were only well, +I'd carry you off home with me this very day, and we'd go driving +out in the country, and have woodsy picnics, and all sorts of +delightful things." + +"I went to ride yesterday with Dr. Dudley," said Polly +contentedly. + +"Yes, that's all right as far as it goes; but your pleasures are +too serious ones for the most part. You ought to be playing with +dolls--without a care beyond them. By the way, I never have +seen you with a doll yet." + +"No, I have n't any," replied Polly sadly. + +"But you have them up in the ward, don't you?" + +"There's a little old rubber doll that somebody left because it +had n't any squeak--that's all." + +"For pity's sake!" exclaimed the little lady. "The idea!--not +a single doll that can be called a doll! I never heard anything +like it! What do yo play with? Or don't you play at all?" + +"Oh, yes!" laughed Polly. "We play games, and Dr. Dudley has +given me two story-books, and there are some toy soldiers--but +they're 'most all broken now. Then there's a big book with +pictures pasted in it--that's nice! There was Noah's Ark; but +a little boy threw Noah and nearly all the animals out of the +window, and before we found them the rain spoiled some of them, +and the rest were lost." + +"I declare, it's pitiful!" sorrowed the little lady. + +"Oh, we have a nice time!" smiled Polly. + +"I believe you'd find something to enjoy on a desert, without a +soul within fifty miles!" laughed Mrs. Jocelyn. + +"Guess I'd be lonesome!" chuckled Polly. "But I always thought +the sand would be lovely to play in." + +"There, I told you so! Oh, you'd have a good time! But, child, +have n't you any doll of your own--at home, I mean?" + +"No, not now--I did have"--and pain crept into the sweet +little face. "Mamma gave me a pretty doll the last Christmas-- +oh, I loved it so! But after I went to live with Aunt Jane I +helped her 'most all the time I was out of school, and I did n't +have much time to play with Phebe--she was named for mamma. +Phebe was mamma's name. So finally Aunt Jane said that Maude +might just as well have my doll. I felt as if I could n't give +her up, but I had to--" Polly's lip quivered, and she swallowed +hard. + +"Poor little girl!" Mrs. Jocelyn put out a hand and gently +stroked the bright curls. "How could anybody be so cruel!" + +"I would n't have cared--much, if Maude had loved Phebe; but +she did n't. She'd swing her round by one leg, and pull her hair +when she got mad, or--anything. It seemed as if I could n't +stant it!" + +"Bless you! I don't see how you could!" sympathized her +listener. + +"Why, I had to!" replied Polly simply. "But one day--I never +told anybody this, even Miss Lucy--one day Aunt Jane took the +children to a circus, and I stayed home all alone. After they'd +been gone about half an hour I went and dug as deep a hole as I +could right in the middle of the clothes-yard--the woman +upstairs was gone, too, so she could n't see me--and I wrapped +Phebe up in a clean piece of paper, after I'd kissed her and bid +her good-bye--and then I buried her! It 'most killed me to do +it; but I could n't see any other way. Do you think it was +dreadfully wicked?" + +Polly looked up with wet, appealing eyes, and, to her amazement, +saw that tears were running down the little lady's cheeks. + +"Wicked!" Mrs. Jocelyn ejaculated. "If nobody ever did anything +more wicked than that it would be a blessed sort of world! NO, +dearest; I'm glad you were brave enough to do it--as glad as +can be! But what did they say when the came home? Did n't they +miss the doll?" + +"Not that night; they were so excited about the circus. They +never said a word till some time the next morning; then Maude +wondered where Phebe was. I was dreadfully afraid they'd ask me +if I knew; but Maude only looked for her a little while--she +did n't love her a bit. Aunt Jane told her she was probably +kicking round somewhere, and it served her right for not taking +better of her. I guess they forgot all about her pretty soon; but +I did n't--I never shall forget Phebe!" + +Mrs. Jocelyn put her arm around Polly, and held her close, +murmuring sympathetic words, which were very comforting to the +bereft little mother. + +"How did Phebe look?" asked Mrs. Jocelyn, at last. "Do you want +to tell me?" + +"Oh, yes! She had light curly hair, just like mine, and such +pretty blue eyes and red cheeks! She was about _so_ tall," +measuring a foot or more with her hands. "She had on a little +white muslin dress, with blue sprigs on it--the other dresses +Maude spoiled. She was just as sweet as she could be!" Polly's +eyes almost brimmed over, and the lady gently led her thoughts to +other things. + +Soon Dr. Dudley came in, and then the little girl said good-bye. + +On the stairs she heard her name called and looking back she saw +Miss Hortensia Price, a bunch of sweet peas in her hand. + +"I was bringing these to you," the nurse smiled. "How do you do, +my dear? Are you feeling quite well again?" + +"Oh, yes, thank you!" cried Polly, her little nose among the +flowers. "Doctor would n't let me get up day before yesterday, +and now I'm so rested I don't feel as if I'd ever get tired." + +"I am very glad. I meant to come up to see you sooner, but I did +n't wish to disturb you that first day, and yesterday I was +extremely busy." + +"Burton is not worse, is he?" asked Polly quickly. + +"Oh, no! his is doing even better than we anticipated. And at +last he has decided to keep still--did Dr. Dudley tell you?" + +"Yes," beamed Polly, "and I'm so glad!" + +"We all are. He has been a hard child to manage. We have much +to thank you for--I shall never forget what you have done!" + +Polly was astonished at this praise that she could do nothing but +blush and murmur a few words of dissent. + +"Burton's mother," Miss Price went on, "wishes you would come in +some time and sing her that hymn again, the last one you sang, +'The King of Love my Shepherd is.'" + +"Oh," smiled Polly, "I wish she could hear David sing that! He +sings it beautifully! I never heard it till that night, so I did +n't know it very well; but if she could come up into the ward, I'm +sure David would sing it for her." + +Miss Price seemed to ignore David altogether, for she only said:-- + +"Polly May, if you can learn like that, with your sweet voice,-- +why, you must have a musical education! I shall speak to Dr. +Dudley about it at once. But I'm keeping you standing here, +child, and you not strong!" + +Polly assured her that she was not tired in the least, and thanked +her again for the flowers. Then she ran upstairs, to tell the +astonishing news to Miss Lucy and the ward, and to show her sweet +peas in proof of Miss Hortensia Price's wonderful kindness. + +After everybody had had a sniff of the fragrant blossoms, Polly +proposed moving a little table to the side of David's cot, and +placing the flowers on it. + +"Because," she argued, "if David had n't sung the hymn that +night, I could n't have and if I had n't, maybe Miss Price would +n't have given me the sweet peas; so I think they belong to David +as much as to me." + +The children--all but David, and his protests went for +naught--accepted Polly's reasoning as perfectly logical, and readily +helped carry out her suggestion. Miss Lucy smiled to herself, +while she allowed them to do as they pleased. + +"Will they keep till to-morrow, s'pose?" Questioned Elsie +anxiously. + +"Of course," answered Polly. "Why?" + +"Cause they'll help celebrate," Elsie returned. + +"Celebrate what?" queried Polly, wiping a drop of overrunning +water from the glass which Miss Lucy had supplied. + +"Why, the war's birthday! Don't you know about it?" And Elsie +looked her astonishment at having heard any new with which Polly +was not already acquainted. + +"I don't know what you mean," Polly replied. + +Then what a babel of tongues! Each wanted to be first to inform +Polly. + +"The ward's five years old to-morrow!"--"Miss Lucy's been tellin' +us!"--"it was started five years ago!"--"There was only three +children in it then!"--"She said we ought to celebrate!"--"A +lady give it to the hospital!" + +"We'll every one wear a sweet pea all day!" announced Polly. + +"That'll be lovely!" beamed Elsie. + +"They'll wilt," objected practical Moses. + +"Never mind!" returned Polly. "We can give 'em a drink once in a +while." + +So it was agreed. Meantime Miss Lucy, at her table, textbook in +hand, overheard and wished and planned. Downstairs, too, where +Mrs. Jocelyn sat talking with Dr. Dudley, more planning was going +on, and in the physician's own heart a little private scheme was +brewing. Thus the ward's birthday came nearer and more near. + +The sweet peas were placed on a broad sill outside the window for +the night, lest they might take it into their frail little heads +to wither before their time. They showed their appreciation of +Miss Lucy's thoughtfulness by being as sweet and bright as +possible, and early in the morning everybody in the ward wore a +decoration. + +About ten o'clock Dr. Dudley appeared, and Polly and Elsie hurried +to pin a posy in his buttonhole. Elsie had chosen a pink and +Polly a blue blossom, and one little girl held them in place while +the other pinned them fast, the Doctor sending telegraphic +messages over their heads to Miss Lucy. + +"Now, let me see," he began, after he had returned thanks for +his sweets; "think I can squeeze in seven or eight of them?" +nodding to the nurse. + +"They're none of them very bulky," she laughed. + +"Fell strong enough for an auto ride, Elsie?" he twinkled. + +"Me?" gasped the little girl. "You don't mean me, do you?" + +"If your name is Elsie Meyer, you're the one," he replied. + +"Oh, my! O-h, m-y!" she cried. "Polly! Polly! He's goin' to +take me to ride!" And she whirled Polly round and round in her +excited joy. + +"Cornelius and Moses," he counted, "and Elsie and Polly,"-- +his eyes had reached the little girl with a crutch, whose pale +face was growing pink and paler by turns,--"and Leonora and +Brida," he went on; "that makes six." + +"Oh, me too?" squealed Brida delightedly, clutching her chair +for support in the trying moment. + +Leonora said nothing, only gazed at the Doctor as if she feared he +would vanish, together with her promised ride, if she did not keep +close watch. + +"There are only two more for whom I dare risk the bumpety-bumps," +laughed Dr. Dudley. "Corinne, I think you can bear them, and +perhaps we can wedge in Isabel." + +"Oh, we can hold her!" volunteered Elsie. + +"Sure, we can!" echoed Cornelius. + +"No, I want to thit in Polly'th lap," lisped the midget, edging +away from the others, and doing her best to climb to Polly's arms. + +Polly clasped the tiny one tight, smiling her promise, to full of +joy in her friends' happiness for any words. + +"I'll give you fifteen minutes to prink up in," the Doctor told +them; and away they scampered, Polly halting by David's cot long +enough to wish he "were going too." + +The eight were downstairs within the specified time, and they +whirled off in the big motor car, which seated them all +comfortably without crowding anybody. Very demure they were, +passing along the city streets, but in the open country their +delight found vent in shouts and squeals and jubilant laughter. +Dr. Dudley chose a route apart from the traveled highways, leading +through woods and between blossoming fields. + +"Could we get out and pick just a few o' those flowers?" Elsie +ventured; and presently they were all over the stone wall, Leonora +with the rest, right down among the goldenrod and asters. + +The went home with their arms full of beauty, too overjoyed even +to guess that they had been away nearly two whole hours, and that +it was dinner time. + +Leonora was first to discover it--the beautiful copy of the +Sistine Madonna, hanging opposite David's bed. Then dinner had to +wait, while they flocked over to look at Dr. Dudley's gift to the +ward. + +"Why, it's just like a story," cried Elsie. "Something keeps +happening all the time." + +Miss Lucy smiled mysteriously, which made Polly wonder if there +were more happenings in reserve for the day. + +Dinner was barely cleared away when a rap sent Moses to the door. +There stood one of the porters grinning behind a pyramid of white +boxes tied with gay ribbons. + +Moses was too astonished for anything but speechlessly to let the +man pass him. The pile was deposited beside the nurse, and Elsie +squealed out:-- + +"They look 'xac'ly like Christmas!" + +"Perhaps the inside will look like Christmas, too," smiled Miss +Lucy. "Let's see what this card says:--'For the young folds of +the Convalescent Ward, in honor of the Ward's fifth birthday. From +Mrs Juliet P. Jocelyn.' + +"This box is addressed to Miss Polly May;" and she handed out +the one on top. + +Polly received it with an "Oh, thank you!" A sudden tumultuous +hope had sprung in her heart, and she gazed down at the oblong box +with a mingled anticipation and fear. What could it be but--! +Yet what if it should n't be! With trembling fingers she +hurriedly untied the blue ribbon. She hardly dared lift the +cover; but--it was! + +"Oh, Phebe!" she cried, with almost a sob, clasping the +beautiful doll to her heart. + +It was not Phebe, but so nearly like the cherished one it was not +surprising in that first ecstatic moment Polly should think it was +really her los darling. Golden curls, blue eyes, and a frock of +white muslin with blue sprigs made the resemblance very true. In +her own bliss, Polly for a minute, forgot her surroundings. Then +she became suddenly aware that Elsie was dancing about, shrieking +with delight, holding a doll the counterpart of Polly's own, +except for the color of dress and eyes. + +Brida's doll had blue eyes, alike the new Phebe, and Leonora's +brown, like Elsie's. + +Miss Lucy could not untie the boxes fast enough now, the children +were so wildly excited. Every girl had a beautiful doll, and +every boy a gift that made him shout in glee or wrapped him in +speechless joy, according to his nature. + +"How _did_ she know I'd ruther have 'em than anything in th' +biggest store you ever saw?" cried Cornelius, with a yell of +rapture, throwing off the cover of his box to see a ball, a bat, +and a catcher's mitt. "How did she did she know it?" + +The other big boys had similar presents and the younger lads +mechanical toys of various kinds,--Railway and Track, Steamer, +Automobile, Fire Engine, and a real little Flying Machine. +Besides these there were a number of fascinating games and a box +of stone blocks. + +In the late afternoon some of the nurses made a brief visit, +bringing their combined gift,--a dozen books and a shelf to +keep them on. Miss Price, who could not leave her patient, sent a +set of crayons and outline picture-books to color. And so one +delight followed another until the children were in a state of the +happiest excitement. + +Just before supper time Dr. Dudley came in, full of merriment and +droll stories. + +The tea was there on time, a regular "party tea," with a +birthday cake and five small candles. The goodies seemed ready to +be eaten; the little folks were eager to taste; still Miss Lucy +did not give the word. She and the Doctor would turn towards the +door at the slightest sound; then they would go on talking again. +Finally Polly's sharp ears heard footsteps, approaching footsteps. +Dr. Dudley listened, jumped up, and slipped outside the door, +shutting it behind him. The steps drew nearer, there were low +voices and faint laughter. Then something like a small commotion +seemed to be taking place just outside. Elsie's impatience let +loose her tongue. + +"Oh, Miss Lucy! What is it? Do tell us! Please do!" + +"In a minute there'll be no need of telling," was the smiling +answer. + +At the instant a light rap sent Polly and Elsie flying to the +door. Polly was ahead and threw it wide open on a pretty picture, +--little Mrs. Jocelyn seated in a wheel chair, Dr. Dudley and a +porter in the background. + +"Oh, o-h!" cried Polly, "how perfectly lovelicious!" And she +stepped aside to let the guest roll herself in. + +Miss Lucy came forward with a glad greeting, while the flock of +girls and boys retreated, struck with sudden shyness. + +Polly laid hold of Elsie and Leonora. "come!" she whispered. +"Come, and shake hands with her!" + +"No, no! I can't!" gasped Leonora, terrified at the thought of +speaking to that beautiful little white-haired lady in the +exquisite gray silk. + +"Yes, come!" urged Polly. "She gave us our dolls, and we must +thank her!" Her hand on Leonora's gave the timid girl courage, +and she allowed herself to be led towards the wheel chair. + +They were all presented by name, and Mrs. Jocelyn won the girls' +hearts with kisses and kindly words, while the boys, from +Cornelius O'Shaughnessy to little John Fritz, were so charmed by +her interest in their sports that they afterwards voted her "a +dandy one"--their highest praise. + +The tea went off, as all party teas ought to go, to the music of +merry laughter; and when the ice cream came on, the children's +glee reached its height--it was in the form of a quaint little +girls and boys! + +It was nearly bedtime when the last gift arrived. The parcel was +oblong and flat and heavy. + +"I bet it's another picture!" ventured Moses. + +Polly fairly shouted when Miss Lucy folded back the wrappings. +There lay a superb photograph, handsomely framed in oak, of Lone +Star and his master. The note accompanied it:-- + + To the Children's Convalescent Ward: + + Dear Ward:--News has just come that you are having a birthday. + I congratulate you on having lived and prospered for five long + years. As I have counted only four birthdays myself, I have + great respect for those that have attained to five. + + I cannot let the day pass without sending you a small token of + neighborly affection, and because the hour is late and I have + nothing better in sight I trust you will pardon my seeming + egotism in presenting my own picture. + + Wish bushels of joyful wishes for you future, I will sign myself + + Your fast friend, + + Lone Star + + + +Chapter XI + +Polly Plays the Part of Eva + + +Summer still lingered, but signs were abroad of her coming +departure. Noons were hot, and nights were chill; bird carols +were infrequent; chrysanthemums were unfurling their buds. The +vines that festooned the windows of the children's convalescent +ward sent an occasional yellow-coated messenger to the lilac +bushes below--a messenger that never came back. + +Inside the ward there were even greater changes. Of the old set +of summer patients only a few remained to keep Polly company. +Elsie and Brida, Corinne and Isabel, with Moses and Cornelius, had +received their discharge and had returned to their homes. Leonora +stayed for more of the treatment that was slowly lessening her +lameness and pain. David had so far recovered as to have been +appointed office boy for Dr. Dudley, a position which was, +according to David's version, "all pay and no work." But +somebody was needed to answer telephone calls during the +physician's absence, as well as to note any messages that might +arrive for him, and David's strength was now sufficient for the +service. So the arrangement was proving a very happy one, and was +especially enjoyed by Polly and Leonora. + +As their acquaintances drifted away from the hospital, and +strangers drifted in, these three became close friends. The girls +would join David in the office, generally bringing their dolls +with them, when David would be the one to tell or read a story, +for his aunt kept him well supplied with interesting tales. +Sometimes, especially in the early twilight hour, Dr. Dudley was +story-teller; or more often they would talk over together the +happenings of the day, the children unconsciously gathering from +the physician's rich store bits of wisdom that would abide with +them as long as memory lived. + +They were watching for him, one night, when the telephone bell +rang. + +David sprang to answer the call, and the girls heard him say:-- + +"No, sir, he is not in.--He went out about an hour ago.--We +expect him every minute now.--Yes, sir, I will." + +The boy came back looking a little excited. + +"It was Uncle David!" he told them. "He says he is sick, and he +wants Dr. Dudley to come over." + +"Oh, dear," scowled Polly; "I hope ther is n't anything bad the +matter with him!" + +"It is the first time I ever spoke to him," said David slowly. +"But, of course, he did n't know it was I that was talking." + +"There's the Doctor!" cried Leonora, as a runabout stopped at +the entrance. + +"Shall I go tell him?" and Polly started. But the lad was already +on his way. + +"Let me, please!" he answered. "I want to do that much for Uncle +David." + +"I thought it might tire him to go fast," murmured Polly, +apologetically, as she joined Leonora at the window. + +"He'll get all out of breath!" worried Leonora. "Just see him +run!" + +"He is n't thinking of himself," Polly responded. "It's just +like him! But his heart is pretty strong now, I guess. Though +Doctor told him to be careful." + +David returned a little pale, and Polly made him lie down on the +couch. + +He did not seem inclined to talk, and the girls waited at the +window, conversing in low tones over their dolls. By and by Dr. +Dudley came up the walk, and Polly ran to open the door for him. + +The physician acknowledged the attention with a grave smile, and +then went directly to the telephone, calling for Miss Batterson. + +David sat up. The girls listened breathlessly. + +Presently they heard arrangements being made for the nurse to go +to the Colonel at once, and they gathered from what was said that +David's great-uncle was ill with typhoid fever, and that the +Doctor had ordered him to bed. + +"He has kept up too long," regretted Dr. Dudley, as he hung the +receiver on its hook. "As it is he'll have to go through a course +of fever. He is furious at the prospect, but it can't be helped. + +"I'm so sorry," mourned Polly. + +Then, seeing that there was no likelihood of a story or even talk +from the Doctor, she proposed, softly to Leonora, that they go +upstairs. + +"No, stay here with David, if you wish; you're not in the way. +I'm going back with Miss Batterson." + +So they remained, while the physician put some medicines in his +case, and gave David directions regarding a problem caller. + +Soon the nurse came in, suit case in hand, and the two went off +together. + +"I hope mother won't hear of it right away," the lad mused. "She +thinks so much of Uncle David. She'd want to go and do something +for him, you know, and she could n't, and so she'd worry." + +Polly recalled her recent drive through Forest Park, and could +scarcely realize that the big, strong man who had made the time so +pleasant for her was now weak and miserable from disease. + +David related incidents of his mother's life with her uncle when +she was a small girl, one leading to another, until, suddenly, Dr. +Dudley opened the door. + +"What!" he exclaimed. "My girlies not abed yet! Why, it is +nearly nine o'clock! Miss Lucy will think I have kidnapped you." + +They hurried away, with laughing good-nights, after being assured +by the Doctor that probably Colonel Gresham would "come out all +right." + +David slept downstairs now, in a tiny room adjoining the +physician's, and his last thought that night was of the +strangeness of it all--Uncle David's hurrying to catch Dr. +Dudley for him, and his being the first to notify the Doctor of +his uncle's illness, while they had not even a bowing acquaintance +with each other! + +For a few days there was no alarming change in colonel Gresham's +condition. Then he grew worse. He became delirious, and remained +so, recognizing no one. The anxiety felt in Dr. Dudley's office +extended upstairs to the little people of the convalescent ward, +for since the Colonel's birthday gift they had taken great +interest in the master of the famous trotter. Every morning they +were eager for the latest news from the second house away where +their friend lay so ill. + +The twentieth of September was hot and oppressive. Early in the +evening thunder clouds heaped the western sky, and occasional +flashes of lightning portended a shower. + +After the children were established for the night, Miss Lucy sat +long by the open window watching the electrical display. The +clouds rose slowly, lingering beyond the western hills with no +wind to aid their progress. Finally she partly undressed, and +throwing on a kimono settled herself comfortably upon her cot, to +await the uncertain storm, ready to shut the windows in case of +driving rain. By and by fitful breezes fluttered through the +room, the low rumbling of thunder was heard, and presently a soft +patter of drops on the leaves. The lightning grew brilliant. The +nurse dreamed and waked by turns. At length she was aroused by +steps along the corridor. They sounded like Dr. Dudley's. S She +was at the door as the physician's knuckle touched it. In +response to his voice she stepped outside, that they might not +disturb the sleepers. + +"I want to take Polly over to Colonel Gresham's," the Doctor +explained. "He keeps on calling for 'Eva,' and nothing will quite +him. He is on the verge of collapse." + +"Did n't Mrs. Collins come?" + +"Yes; but he did n't know her. It broke her all up. I think now +that he has gone back to the time when she was a little girl, and +possibly has confounded her with Polly. At any rate, I'm going to +try the experiment of taking Polly over. It can do no harm, and +may do some good." + +The hall suddenly burst into light, and there was a simultaneous +roar of thunder. + +"We're going to have a shower," observed the Doctor. + +"I should think it was already here," returned Miss Lucy. "Had +n't you better wait till it passes, before taking Polly out?" + +"Oh, no! Wrap her up well, and I'll carry her. It is only a few +stops; she won't get wet." + +Polly was a quaint little figure in the long mackintosh, and it +tripped her feet once or twice, until the doctor drew it from her +and threw it across his arm. + +The thunder had been lighter for some minutes; but as they halted +at the entrance before going out a tremendous crash jarred the +building. + +"Not afraid, Thistledown?" smiled Dr. Dudley, as he wrapped her +again in the long cloak. + +"I don't like it," she confessed; "but I shan't mind with you," +putting her arms around his neck. + +The rain was pouring as they left the piazza, and before they were +off the grounds big stones of hail were pelting their umbrella. +The Doctor hurried along, the lightning glaring about them and the +air filled with thunder. + +Colonel Gresham's house was nearly reached, when a sudden gust +turned the umbrella, and almost at once came a blaze of light and +a terrific crash--a great oak across the street had been split +from top to root! + +With a gasp of terror Polly clung to the Doctor's neck, and he +sped up the walk on a quick run. + +"There!" he exclaimed, setting her down inside the door, "You're +safe and sound! But next time we'll take Miss Lucy's advice, and +not run any such risks." + +"It was awful, was n't it?" breathed Polly. + +"A little too close for comfort," he smiled, taking her wet coat +and spreading it over a chair. + +At the foot of the stairs he halted for a few instructions. + +"Humor the Colonel in every way possible," he told Polly. "If he +names you 'Eva," let him think he is right, and call him 'Uncle +David.'" + +"I'm afraid I shall make a mistake," replied Polly. + +"You won't," he assured her. "Just imagine you are his little +niece, doing everything to please him--that is all." + +Miss Batterson smiled down on Polly, as she entered the sick-room, +and spoke in a low voice to the physician. + +Colonel Gresham had been muttering indistinctly, and now broke +into his persistent call:-- + +"Eva! Eva! Where's Eva?" + +Dr. Dudley gave Polly a gentle push towards the bed. + +"Here I am, Uncle David!" she answered, standing where the light +slanted across her yellow curls. + +The sick man started up, and then dropped back on his pillow. + +"Oh, you've come!" he cried, with a breath of relief, "Why did +you stay away--so--long?" + +"I did n't know you wanted me till now, Uncle David," replied +the soft voice. + +"Come nearer, child! Let me feel you little hand! I dreamed--I +dreamed--you were gone--forever!" + +"He lay quiet for a moment, her cool fingers in his hot, +trembling palm. Then he startled her bu the sudden cry:-- + +"That water! It's dripping, dripping right on my head! Eva, put +up your hand, and catch it!" + +Standing beside his pillow, Polly held her hand high. + +"I'll catch it all, Uncle David," she assured him. "You shan't +feel another drop!" + +"That's a good girl! You always are a good girl, Eva! Seems as +--if--" + +The voice trailed off into confused mutterings, and with trembling +fingers he began picking at the sheet and working it into tiny +rolls. + +Very gently Polly took one of the restless hands in both her own, +and smoothed it tenderly. + +This had a quieting effect, and he lay still for so long that Dr. +Dudley drew Polly softly away, letting her rest on his knee, her +head against his shoulder. + +But in a moment the old call burst out:-- + +"Eva! Eva! Where are you, Eva?" + +Her prompt assurance, "I'm right here, Uncle David!" hushed him +at once. Presently, however, he began again. + +"Eva! Eva! You love your old uncle, don't you, Eva? Just a-- +little--bit?" + +"More than a little bit! I love you dearly, Uncle David!" + +"Don't go away any more! Promise, Eva! Promise me!" + +"I'll stay just as long as you want me Uncle David. Can't you go +to sleep? Remember, I'll be right here all the time!" + +Reassured by this, he closed his eyes, and was quiet for a while; +yet only to rouse again and repeat the same old cry. + +The thunder was now only an occasional rumble in the distance, and +the lightning had faded to a glimmer; but the rain still kept on, +and as the nurse raised another window the ceaseless patter of the +drops seemed to disturb the sick man, for he began his complaint +of the dripping water upon his head. + +Polly pacified him, as before, and once more he drowsed. + +The little girl slept, to, in the Doctor's arms, until, towards +morning the Colonel was resting so calmly that they returned to +the hospital. + +Miss Lucy clasped Polly with almost a sob. + +"If you ever go away again in such a storm," she declared, "I +shall go, too! I saw the lightning come down--and--" her +voice broke. + +"And we were not harmed in the least," finished the Doctor +cheerily. "But next time I promise to act upon your higher +wisdom, and not venture among such thunderbolts. Now, hustle into +bed, both of you, and don't dare to wake up till breakfast time!" + +The convalescent ward slept late; the nurse and Polly strictly +obeyed orders. Nobody cared, however, and unusual gayety +prevailed at the tardy breakfast, to match the bright September +morning and the good news of Colonel Gresham. For word had come +up from Dr. Dudley that the Colonel was going to get well. + +Of course the children eagerly heard the story of Polly's midnight +trip in the physician's arms through the fearful storm. It had to +be told over and over again, and the more daring ones wished they +had been awake to see it all. + +The details of what had taken place in the sick-room Polly wisely +withheld; but the girls and boys were undoubtedly more interested +in the account of the lightning's striking the familiar big oak +tree than they would have been in the more important part of that +night's strange story. + +It was not many weeks afterward that Dr. Dudley brought Polly a +message. + +"The Colonel says he feels slighted because you don't come to see +him, and I promised to send you over." + +"OH, I shall have to go!" cried Polly. "I'll run right off and +change my dress." + +Colonel Gresham was in a great chair by the window, and begged his +small guest pardon for not rising to greet her. + +"I'm not quite firm on my legs yet," he laughed, "and I must n't +topple over, as Miss Batterson has left me for a whole hour." + +"Oh, then I'll stay and wait on you!" beamed Polly. "And if you +get tired hearing me talk, you can go to sleep." + +But the Colonel seemed very wide awake, and after a gay chat he +began:-- + +"Dr. Dudley has been telling me about bringing you over here in +that thunderstorm, and how you quieted me when nobody else +could." + +"Yes," replied Polly innocently, "You thought I was your little +niece, Eva, and--" + +"What?" broke in her listener, amazement in his tone. + +"Oh, I s'posed he 'd told you!" cried Polly, in dismay. "I ought +not to have--" + +"Yes, you ought!" he interrupted. "What did I say?" + +Polly hesitated. She was not at all sure that Dr. Dudley would +wish her to disclose the wanderings of the Colonel's mind, since +he had not done so himself. But there seemed no other way, so she +replied simply:-- + +"Oh, you did n't say much! Only you kept calling for Eva, and so +I pretended I was she, and I called you Uncle David. And you +heard the rain, and thought it was dripping on your head, and you +wanted me to hold my hand up to catch it. That was about all." + +Polly cast furtive glances at the Colonel. She could make nothing +of his face, beyond that it was very grave. She wondered if he +were displeased with her. + +After a time he spoke. + +"You have done me a kindness that can never be repaid. Such +debts cannot be balanced with money. So we won't talk about pay. +But I should like to do something for you--give you a sort of +remembrance. I don't know what would make you happiest; but you +may chose, 'to the half of my kingdom'--anything but Lone Star. +I'm afraid I should hate to give up Lone Star!" + +Polly laughed, and the Colonel laughed too, which put the talk on +a cheery footing, and she assured him that she should n't have +chosen Lone Star anyway, because she did n't know how to take care +of a horse, and had n't any place to keep him in. + +Then her face grew suddenly serious, and she sat gazing at the +pattern of the rug so long that Colonel Gresham smiled to himself. + +"Is it too much of a problem?" he finally asked. "Can't you +think of anything within my power that would give you a little +happiness?" + +"Oh, yes!" Polly answered quickly; "but I'm afraid--" she +stopped. + +"Afraid of what?" he questioned. + +"Afraid it is too much to ask," she replied softly, lifting her +thoughtful eyes to his. + +"No, it is n't! Anything that will add to your happiness--" + +"Oh, this would make me very happy!" + +"Out with it then! 'To the half of my kingdom,' remember!" + +"And you won't be offended?" + +"I give you my word," he smiled. + +"Well," she began slowly, "I should like best of all to have you +--oh, I wish you would forgive David's mother, and love her +again! She loves you so much!" + +For several minutes--it seemed an hour to Polly--the marble +clock over the fireplace, with the bronze mother and child sitting +there, tick-tocked its way uninterruptedly. The little girl did +not dare to look up. Her heart beat very fast indeed. It hurt +her to breathe. Had she made Colonel Gresham so angry that he +would never speak to her again? She wondered how long it would be +before she could gain enough courage for just one glance at his +face. The he spoke. + +"You have given me a hard task, little Polly! It would be easier +to go through the fever again!" His voice was gentle--very +gentle, but sad. + +"Oh, please, please excuse me!" she exclaimed earnestly. "I ought +not to have asked it! I'll take it all back! You said what would +make me happiest--and so--and so--" She put her face down in her +hands. "I did n't mean to hurt you!" she sobbed, "I did n't! I +did n't!" + +"Child! Child! This will never do! It is I who am wholly to +blame! You have done nothing to excuse. I shall keep my promise +to you, if you are sure that what you have asked will give you the +greatest happiness." + +He waited for her answer--Polly never guessed with what selfish +longing. + +Her face burst into radiance. + +"Oh, will you!" she exclaimed. "It will make me so happy, happy, +I shan't know what to do!" + +Colonel Gresham was very pale, but Polly did not notice. She was +looking through rose-colored glasses. + +"Is David still at the hospital?" the Colonel inquired. + +"Yes, sir; he stays in Dr. Dudley's office now, to answer the +telephone and attend to things. He's almost well." + +"Well enough to walk over here, think?" + +"Oh, yes, sir!" Polly beamed. + +"Suppose you run and fetch him then. Say to him that I should +like to make his acquaintance." + +Polly needed no urging for such a blissful errand, and in her +excitement failed to hear the Doctor's approaching footsteps. At +the threshold she nearly ran into his arms. + +"Why such haste, Thistledown? Have you and Colonel Gresham +quarreled?" + +"Oh, no! I'm going after David. Do you care if he leaves the +office for just a little while?" + +"Certainly not. Tell him from me that he can come." + +If the Doctor felt any surprise, neither his voice nor his face +showed it. + +It cost Polly a deal of talk to convince David that his uncle had +actually sent for him, and then, after he had said that he would +go, he was afraid that his clothes were not just right for such a +visit. + +"Never mind you clothes!" cried Polly. "He'll never know what +you have on." + +"Well, I must brush my hair," delayed the boy, dreading the +ordeal before him. + +"Oh, you hair's well enough! Don't flat it down! It's so pretty +as it is now--all curly and fluffy!" + +So they were finally started, Polly talking so fast that David had +small chance for nervousness or fear. + +Dr. Dudley was not in sight when the children entered Colonel +Gresham's room, and Polly made a silent wild guess regarding his +speedy going away. To David's pleasure the Colonel received him +as he would have received any other lad whom Polly had brought for +a call. There was no reference to his mother or to their kinship, +and the boy began at once to feel at ease. He inquired about his +recent injury and his stay at the hospital, and then, by a chance +remark of Polly's, the subject of David's church singing was +brought up. + +Conversation had not begun to flag, when Polly spied the Doctor's +auto at the curb. Mrs. Collins was stepping out! + +David's sentence broke off square in the middle; but Colonel +Gresham did not appear to notice. Footsteps neared the door, and +the children sat breathless; yet the Colonel still talked on as +quietly as before. + +When the door opened, Polly saw his fingers grip the arms of his +chair. His voice faltered off into silence. + +Dr. Dudley stepped aside, and David's mother appeared on the +threshold, a little slight, fair-haired woman, her face now pink +with emotion, her eyes big and shining. + +The held out both hands; there was a swish of skirts an something +like a sob. + +Polly heard, "Eva!"--"Oh, Uncle David!" Then she slipped out +to the Doctor, and he softly shut the door. + +They went downstairs hand in hand, and so to the street. + +"We'll have a little ride," he proposed, "to let off steam. +There are n't any patients that will hurt by waiting." + +The car passed slowly up the pleasant street. + +"Thistledown," he said tenderly, "you have accomplished a +blessed work this morning." + +"Why," exclaimed Polly, in surprise, "I have n't done a single +thing--only go after David! It's the Colonel that's done it +all! But is n't it splendid of him? Are n't you glad for +David?" + +"I am glad for them all. It is what I feared never would come to +pass. Colonel Gresham is sure to like David, and it is going to +mean everything for the boy." + + + +Chapter XII + +The Kidnapping of Polly + + +"Mamma and I are going to live with Uncle David." So the boy told +Polly late that afternoon. "He says he has lost time enough, and +now we must come as soon as we can pack up." + +"Is n't that splendid!" beamed Polly, thinking she had never +seen David look so happy or so handsome. + +"Uncle David is nicer--a great deal nicer--than I dreamed +he could be. O Polly, I can't thank you enough!" + +"Thank me?" repeated Polly. "What for?" + +"Polly May!" and David gazed at her incredulously. Then he +laughed. + +"Oh, you little bunch of unselfishness!" he cried. "I believe +you have n't the least idea that Uncle David's making up with us +is all your doing!" + +"Why, David Collins, it is n't! I just told him it would make me +happy if he would--that's all!" + +"Just as I said!" he laughed. "O Polly, Polly! Don't you see-- +no, no, I'd rather you would n't! Don't try to see!" + +"I could n't!" chuckled Polly. "There is n't anything to see!" + +"All right! It's grand anyway! Mamma looks so much prettier and +younger! Oh, you can't think how happy--" + +The telephone cut off his sentence, and he ran across the office. + +He listened a moment; then Polly heard him say, "She is right +here. If you'll wait, please, I'll ask her." + +David turned from the instrument. "It is Mrs. Jocelyn," he +explained. "She wants you to come up there to-morrow afternoon, +and stay all night and next day. Her cousin's little girl-- +Dorothy Cannon, I think the name is--will be there, and she +wants you too." + +"Oh, of course I'll go!" and Polly's eyes shone: "that is, if +Miss Lucy or Dr. Dudley don't need me for anything, and I don't +suppose they will. Tell her I'll come, unless they do. Oh, and, +David,"--for he had taken up the receiver again,--"ask her +what time she wants me, please!" + +He gave the message, and then turned back to Polly. + +"She says to come as early as you can after dinner. Dear me, it +will be awfully lonesome without you!" + +"It will, won't it?" Polly's face sobered. "But then," she +brightened, "you'll have to be home helping your mother pack up, +shan't you?" + +"So I shall," he returned. "And it will be a good time for you +to go. Ever hear of this Dorothy before?" + +"Oh, yes! Mrs. Jocelyn has told me lots about her. I guess +she's nice. She's twelve." + +"You'll have a fine time, and I'll try to be glad you're going," +laughed David. + +Polly danced off to tell Miss Lucy and Leonora of her invitation, +waving a gay good-bye to David from the doorway. She had made +several visits of a day to Mrs. Jocelyn, who had left the hospital +some weeks before; but she had never remained overnight. And to +see the Dorothy Cannon of whom she had heard so many happy things! +She went upstairs on tiptoe of anticipation. + +Miss Lucy was please, and Leonora tried to be. Polly saw through +her forced smiles, however, and proposed all the pleasant make-ups +she could think of. + +"You can take care of Phebe while I'm gone, and play she's twin +sister to your Juliet" (Leonora had named her doll after its +donor), "and you make take the book Burton Leonard sent me. We +have n't read more than half the stories in it yet." + +Leonora was beaming her thanks and her delight, when Miss Lucy +declared that she should depend on her to help entertain the ward, +and that made her look so joyful, Polly knew there would be little +lonesomeness for the lame girl. + +When Dr. Dudley heard that Polly was going, he promised to carry +her in his automobile, for it was a long walk to Mrs. Jocelyn's +home. + +"Then I shall have you to myself a little longer than the rest of +the," he twinkled. + +"Anybody'd think I was n't ever coming back!" laughed Polly. + +"Oh, don't say so!" shivered Leonora. "Talk about what you're +going to wear!" + +"All right!" Polly agreed. "Miss Lucy and I have got it all +planned. I shall wear my best white dress, if it is as warm as it +is today, and take my white sweater with me, so I'll have it if it +comes off cold. And I'm going to wear my beautiful locket and +chain that Mrs. Leonard gave me, and my newest blue hair ribbon, +and my best ties, and my best hat." + +"Dear me," mused Dr. Dudley gravely, "I did n't know I should +have to sit beside so fine a young lady as that! I wonder if I +must put on my dress suit." + +Polly giggled, and Leonora squealed, and they were not sobered +down when they bade the Doctor good-night. + +"Is n't he nice?" admired the lame girl, as they went slowly +upstairs, hand in hand. + +"He's the very nicest man in the whole world!" asserted Polly, +and her nodding curls emphasized her praise. + +Dressing came directly after dinner, and Polly had the eager +assistance of every girl in the ward that was able to be about on +two feet. + +Angiola Cuneo fetched the pretty black ties, and Mabel Camp the +long stockings. Frederica Schmelzer held the box containing the +hair ribbon of delicate blue while Miss Lucy brushed the fluffy +curls into smoothness. Stella Pope, greatly puffed up by the +importance of her errand, went to Miss Lucy's own room, and +brought back the dainty white frock, all spotless from the +laundry. But Leonora's was the crowning service of all. With +trembling fingers she clasped around Polly's white neck the +exquisite little gold chain, with its pendent locket, which had +been Mrs. Leonard's farewell gift when Burton left the hospital. + +"There," she whispered delightedly, patting Polly's shoulder, +"you look too sweet for anything!" + +Polly dimpled and blushed, but only said:-- + +"I wish you were going, too!" + +"Oh my!" gasped Leonora; "I should n't know how to act or what +to say! I guess I'd rather stay with Miss Lucy." + +The nurse, gathering up some of Polly's tossed-off belongings, +smiled comfortably to herself, overhearing Leonora's words. She +rarely had so much as to hint of reproof to Polly for any breach +of courtesy; the child seemed instinctively to know what was due +to others. She could be trusted anywhere without a fear. + +The auto was waiting at the curb, Dr. Dudley and Polly were on +their way from office to entrance, when there came a hurried call +for the Doctor from one of his patients in a private ward. + +"That's too bad!" he ejaculated. "I wish she had put off her +attack an hour. Now you'll have to walk--or wait, and it is +uncertain how soon I shall be at liberty." + +"Oh, I don't mind walking!" smiled Polly. + +"Well, here's for a good time, Thistledown!" And the Doctor +kissed her on both cheeks. + +She watched him up the stairs, and then went out alone. + +"I wish I could have had the ride with him," she sighed, as she +passed the inviting auto; "but it's a lovely day for a walk," +she added. "I shall be there before I know it." + +She waved her hand to Miss Lucy and the children, up at the +window, who looked astonished to see her walking. Laughing at +their surprise, she flourished her sweater and the little bundle +containing her nightgown. Then shrubbery hid them from view. As +she went by Colonel Gresham's, she wondered how soon David would +be living there. Today he was at home, helping his mother, as she +had predicted he might be. + +A full third of the distance was passed, when, turning a corner, +she met a tall woman in a brown skirt and white waist. + +"Wh--", she gasped; "Aunt Jane!" + +The woman gave a short laugh. + +"You did n't expect to see mi; did you? Where you bound for, all +rigged out so fine?" + +"I'm going to Mrs. Jocelyn's," Polly answered faintly. + +"What! That rich Mrs. Jocelyn?" + +"I guess so." + +"Where does she live?" + +"Up on Edgewood Avenue." + +"Yes, that's the one," nodded the other. "You are comin' on! I +s'pose you don't go to see anybody but millionaires now'days! You +hain't been down to my house in an age." + +"Mrs. Jocelyn was at the hospital," Polly explained, "and she's +invited me up to stay all night, because her cousin's coming." + +"Well, I was on my way to see you and take you home with me. +Glad you happened along, for it will save my climbin' that hill. +Here I am slavin' myself to death, and you're kitin' off hither +and yon just to have a good time. I thought you was goin' to help +'em out at the hospital." + +"I do help all I can," Polly put in meekly. + +"Looks like it! Well, come on! I've got a pile o' work waitin' +for me at home. Much as ever I could get away anyhow." + +Polly stepped forward, and the two walked along together. + +"I thought you'd come over and see you new uncle, even if you did +n't care anything about me and your cousins." + +"My new uncle?" repeated Polly, looking puzzled. + +The woman laughed. "Did n't you hear I'd got married again?" she +asked. + +"Why, no!" cried Polly. + +"I was married three weeks ago to-day," was the proud +announcement. "He's got a good job at the Silver Plate, and I'm +takin' work from the button fact'ry; so we're gittin' on. We've +moved over on Chestnut Street--got a flat now. The kids think +it's fine." + +"I'm glad, Aunt Jane," Polly managed to say, just as she reached +the street which led out in the direction of Edgewood Avenue. "I +have to go this way." She stepped back to allow her aunt to pass +on. + +"Well, I guess not much!" and the child's arm was gripped by a +strong hand. "You're goin' home with me--that's what!" + +"Oh, not to-day!" cried Polly, in a sudden terror. "I can't, +Aunt Jane! I've promised to go up to Mrs. Jocelyn's!" + +"That don't make any difference! You can go up there some other +time--or you can stay away, just as I choose to have you! Now, +you need n't go to cryin' and makin' a fuss!" for Polly's lip was +quivering. "I guess you know me well enough to know that when I +set out to do a thing I do it, and this afternoon I said I was +goin' to fetch you home, and I expect to keep my word." + +A wild thought of flight swept through Polly's mind; but she at +once realized how futile would be an attempt to run away. Her arm +was still held as in a vise, and she was being led along an +unfamiliar street. Aunt Jane nodded now and then to people they +met, and could quickly call any number to her assistance. Polly +decided that this was no time for escape. + +"Where'd you get that locket and chain?" her captor queried. + +"They were a present from Mrs. Leonard." + +"What Mis' Leonard?" + +"I don't know, Her little boy was sick at the hospital, and I +sung--" + +"Oh, that one! Mis' Marvin Leonard it is. Well, they'd ought to +given you some money, too--they've got enough. I read in the +paper about your singin'--and faintin' away." + +"In the newspaper?" Polly's face showed her astonishment. + +"Sure! Did n't you know it? I should think some o' them doctors +or nurses might have let you see the piece. And they'd ought to +had your picture taken to go along with it." + +"Oh, no!" breathed Polly shrinkingly. + +"Huh! You're a great kid! Folks round here thought it was a +pretty smart thing. You hain't no call to be ashamed of it." + +The little girl attempted no reply. She felt that Aunt Jane would +not understand. + +Arrived on the fourth floor of the big tenement house, Polly was +at once called upon to praise the new quarters. + +"Ain't this more swell than that old-fashioned rent on Brewery +Street?" + +"Yes, I guess it is," was the rather doubtful response, for +Poly, in her swift survey of the narrow, gaudy parlor, discerned +little to admire. + +"I s'pose it ain't much compared to the elegance of your +millionaire friends, Aunt Jane flung out, nettled at the child's +lack of approval. + +"Mrs. Jocelyn' furniture is very plain--if you mean her," +replied Polly gently. + +"Well, come in here and put your things," leading the way to a +little dim bedroom, lighted only from the apartment in front. +"Better take off that white dress, and keep it clean; I'll get +you one of Sophia's to wear till I can send for your clothes." + +Slowly and sadly Polly laid aside her hat, and began to unbutton +her dainty frock. Tears welled up in her eyes, at thoughts of +Miss Lucy; but with a mighty effort she winked them back. + +"There!--try that, and see how it fits." + +Aunt Jane had emerged from the depths of a dark closet, and now +tossed a limp calico print towards Polly. + +The child could discern soiled patches on front and sleeves, and +she revolted against the unclean garment; but silently she put it +on. + +"Well, that ain't so bad!" approved Aunt Jane. "Sophia's a whole +year younger than you; but she takes a bigger waist. Stand out +there--my, but it's short! Never mind! Here's a petticoat to +go with it." + +Polly looked down in dismay. She had thought she might perhaps +steal away to the hospital, just to let the Doctor and Miss Lucy +know where she was; but she could never brave the street in such a +skirt. + +"Now I'll go to sewin' buttons, and you can do up the dinner +dishes. I left 'em, thinkin' you'd be here. This is the way to +the kitchen." And presently Polly found herself in a little +stuffy box of a room, with a tableful of greasy dishes before her. + +"Where are the children?" she ventured. + +"At school, of course,--where you ought to be. Marcus and +'Melie I left at Mis' Cobbe's. That Marcus is a terror! I shall +be thankful when he goes to school. Why did n't they send you +this fall? You'll be 'way back in your books." + +"Dr. Dudley has made arrangements for me to go to a school near +the hospital; it does n't begin till next week." + +"Oh, a private school! My, if they ain't puttin' the airs on to +you!" + +"It's near. That's why--" + +"Huh! Well, 't ain't near here. I guess you can git along with +the one my kids go to." + +Polly did not reply. Experience had taught her to be sparing of +words with Aunt Jane. She was still toiling with the heavy +crockery, when a rush of feet in the hallway announced that school +was out. + +The door banged wide. + +"Hoh! You've got back, have you?" + +"Hullo, Poll!" + +"Say, what you wearin' my dress for?" + +"Oh, you've got on a gold locket! Le' me see it!" Katie's +fingers began pulling at the clasp. + +"Oh, don't, please!" cried Polly. "I'll unfasten it for you as +soon as I get the dishes done." + +"I want to see it now! Mamma, shan't Polly take off her locket, +and let me see it?" + +"Polly, why can't you try to please you cousin, and not be so +stingy with your things?" + +"My hands are soapy," she apologized, "and--" + +"Well, don't you know enough to wipe them?" snapped Aunt Jane. +"You seem to have grown very helpless." + +"Say, what are these blue stones in here?" queried Katie, +turning the locket curiously. + +"Turquoises," Polly answered, eyeing with fear Katie's rough +handling. + +"Whose picture is this?" was the next question. "Stop, you +Gregory--you'll break it! Mamma, shant' he stop pulling it +so?" + +"Yes, Gregory, you just wait, like a good boy, till your sister's +seen it; then you can take it." + +Polly trembled. Her beautiful locket and chain in Gregory's dirty +fingers! + +"You have n't told me who this is," complained Katie. + +"Burton Leonard." + +"It's the kid she sung to," added the mother; "the one the paper +told about." + +"Oh!" cried Katie. "What big eyes he's got!" And she snapped +the locket together. + +"Now it's my turn!" asserted Maude, snatching the pretty thing +from her sister's hand. + +Gregory burst into a wail. + +"Yer said I could have it next!" he lamented. + +"Let him take it!" urged the mother. But Maude only clasped the +chain about her own neck, and danced off to the looking-glass over +the sink. + +"Yer mean old thing!" screamed Gregory. + +"Come get it, Greg!" Sophia darted towards her sister. + +"When yer do, let me know!" jeered Maude, eluding their +outstretched hands, and putting a chair between them and herself. + +A short skirmish was followed by a chase around the room, until +their mother interposed. + +"Gracious me! What a hubbub! Maude Simpson, bring that locket to +me this minute!" + +"It was n't my fault at all!" whimpered Maude, taking off the +chain and dropping it in her mother's lap. + +"There's never no peace when you kids are in the house!" +grumbled the woman, tossing aside her work, and disappearing in +the next room. + +"What yer done with it?" whined Gregory, as she came back with +empty hands. + +"I've put it where you won't find it in a hurry," she answered +tartly. "Now hustle outdoors, the whole of you, and don't show +your heads in here again till supper time!" + +Polly drew a breath of relief, as the last Simpson vanished. She +had forgotten how turbulent the children were. + +When the dishes were out of the way began Polly's first lesson in +sewing buttons to cards, and to Aunt Jane's delight she could soon +do the work quickly and well. + +"You'll be quite a help," was the commendation that brought a +little solace to her sore heart. "Thank goodness, you're quieter +than my own kids!" + +So passed the afternoon, until came supper and the new uncle. + +Polly had been helping set the table, when the door opened, and a +little, thin-featured man stepped softly in. + +"Polly May, I'll make you acquainted with your Uncle 'Rastus, +'Rastus Bean," called Aunt Jane from the cupboard that served for +china closet and pantry. + +"How do you do, my dear? How do you do?" smiled Mr. Erastus +Bean, holding out his hand. "I'm very glad to see you." + +Polly's little fingers had barely touched the strong, wiry ones, +when Mrs. Bean's rasping voice broke in. + +"Come along and wash up, 'Rastus! The water's good and hot." + +Polly's hand was dropped, as if it had been of the temperature of +the water. + +"Yis, I'm comin' Jane! I'm comin' fas' 's I can!" The little +man hurried across to the sink. + +The children tumbled in, Gregory sprawling across the threshold +and knocking Katie against a chair. + +"Why don't yer ever look where you goin'?" fretted Sophia. + +"He's always runnin' over me!" wailed Katie. + +"Say, where's Marcus and 'Melie?" demanded Maude. + +"Over to Mis' Cobbe's, where I hope they'll stay till after +supper," answered their mother. "Her kids have been here enough, +and I guess she can 'tend to mine for one meal." + +"I can't go after 'em, 'cause I got to study my spellin'," +announced Sophia. + +"Nobody asked yer to," retorted Mrs. Bean. "They'd ought to know +enough to come home alone." + +The meal progressed to the accompaniment of jarring speech, and +Polly was glad when it was over. + +"Mamma, can we go up on the roof?" asked Katie. "The other folks +are up there, and we'll keep away from the edge." + +"I don't care; but, remember, the first one that goes near that +rail gets a whippin'!" + +The door slammed behind Maude, and Polly began to clear the table. +She was taking up her old tasks as naturally as if she had never +been free from them. + +"Guess I'll go up myself for a few minutes," mused Mrs. Bean. +"'Rastus, you go fetch Marcus and 'Melie home! Marcus 'u'd have +a fit if we went up on the roof without him. And, Polly, you can +put 'Melie to bed, and do up the dishes, and then come on up, if +you want to. 'Rastus!" + +The little man halted in the doorway. + +"What, Jane?" + +"Split up some kindlin's when you git back, and you may as well +fix the fire for mornin'--it must be about out now." + +The dishes were nearly washed when the children were brought in; +and the boy had departed for the roof, and his small sister was in +bed, by the time the new uncle had finished his chores. + +"I'll put them plates up in the cupboard," volunteered the +little man. "Set ri' down and rest." + +But Polly helped, until the last dish was in place and the pan +hung up on its mail. Then she dropped wearily into a chair. + +"That Maude ought to have wiped 'em for yer," he sympathized. +"But them kids!" He wagged his head soberly. "I'd ruther stan' +at the bench, down to the shop, all day long, than be round with +such actin' mortals. Jane, she can manage 'em if she sets out; +but 'most gen'ally she don't set out. Wisht I could do somethin' +for yer," we proffered. "Ye're all tuckered out!" + +"Oh, I'm just a little tired--that's all!" smiled Polly. "You +are ever so good! I wanted to go up to the hospital, and tell +them where I am--they don't know, and I'm afraid they'll worry! +But I guess I can't to-night," she ended sadly. + +"Why, I can run up there for yer, jus' 's well 's not," he +nodded. + +"Oh! Will you?" she brightened. "I'll be so glad! But won't it +be too much trouble?" + +"Not a bit!" he returned glibly. Then his pinched face shaded. +"If I can git back before she comes down," he hesitated, +wavering between kindness and fear. "I guess I can," he +decided, and put on this hat. + +"If Dr. Dudley is n't there," Polly told him, "please ask for +Miss Lucy Price. She'll do just as well. She's the nurse in our +ward." + +"I'll do it up all straight," he exulted, stepping briskly with +the importance of his errand. But as his hand touched the knob, +another's was before it. His wife opened the door. + +"Where you goin', 'Rastus Bean?" she demanded. + +"I--I was just goin' out for a little walk," he faltered. + +"A walk!" she snapped. "If you've got your chores done, you'd +better walk into bed!" + +Without a word he disappeared in an adjoining room, while his wife +lifted the stove cover, to see if his tasks had been faithfully +performed. + +Polly's forlorn hope vanished with the little man; but no tears +came until she was on her pillow, shut from all eyes. Then they +gushed forth in a flood. + + + +Chapter XIII + +The Return + + +Polly was awakened early by clashing talk. The girls, whose room +she shared, were in a wrangle over her pretty, blue hair ribbon. + +Sophia had spied it first, and was slyly using it for her own +straight locks, when Maude had snatched it away, and a hubbub +followed. + +The owner of it did not interfere, but began to dress, as if she +had no interest in the cause of the quarrel. + +"She's more stuck-up 'n she used to be!" Polly overheard Maude +sneer, as she hurried away in response to her aunt's call. + +Mr. Bean wass already eating breakfast, and he greeted the little +girl pleasantly, though keeping watch of his wife, who was frying +cakes. + +"Here! Give these to you uncle," Polly was bidden; whereupon the +little man began such attempts at kindliness as to draw out a +contemptuous, "Huh!" from over the griddle. After that he +fastened his eyes on his plate, and ate in silence. + +By the time the elder children were off for school, and the +younger had departed to a neighboring tenement, Polly's early +tasks were completed, and she sat down again to the button-sewing. + +The little kitchen was very still, and Polly's thoughts sped back +to the big house on the hill. She wondered how long it would be +before she should see Dr. Dudley and Miss Lucy. Were they +worrying about her and trying to find her? She could only guess. + +"I b'lieve I'll run up and get that ginger-bread receipt of Mis' +Moore's." The nasal voice broke in rudely upon the wondering. + +Mrs. Bean shook the threads from her apron, and turned towards the +door. + +"If the kids come in and want something to eat, before I get +back," she halted to say, "there's cookies in that little stone +pot in the cupboard. Don't let 'em have but two apiece." + +Wild thoughts, entirely foreign to Aunt Jane's directions, were +flashing through Polly's mind. + +If only there were time! She could try it! She must let Dr. +Dudley and the others know! + +"I shan't be gone long," her aunt was saying. "You stick to your +work!" + +Polly waited only to hear her walk the length of the hall above, +and a door open and shut. The she cautiously stole out, and down +the stairs, three long flights. Not more than a block away she +had noticed a grocery. Groceries have telephones. She would run +down there, and call up the hospital! At the outer door she +paused an instant for one troubled look at her short skirt; but +time was precious, and quickly she was speeding down the sidewalk. + +"Hoh! Look at her!" jeered a big boy from across the street. + +She did not even glance his way. + +"Have you a telephone?" was her breathless inquiry of a man at +the entrance of the little shop. + +A jerk of his fat thumb towards the dim interior was his only +answer. + +"Please, may I use it?" + +He nodded indifferently, and then she was hurrying in the +direction indicated. + +The instrument was on the wall, and Polly on tiptoe could not +reach the mouthpiece. Looking around for a possible foot-stool, +she spied a small box, which might have been used before for a +similar service, and pulling it into position she found that it +brought her to the proper height. With a trembling hand she +lifted the receiver from its hook. She was familiar with the +hospital number, and gave it without hesitation. + +"Put in your nickel!" came distinctly to her ear. + +Polly started in dismay. This was a pay station! + +"I--have n't any!" she faltered pathetically, and the merciless +snap of the wire told her that her last hope had been cut off. + +She pushed the box back where she had found it, and walked slowly +out of the shop. Her feet still lagged when she turned towards +the tenement. What mattered it if Aunt Jane should return and +find her absent? What mattered anything now? Then came a sudden +daring temptation. The road was free--and she was there! Why not +keep on to the hospital? She looked down--her skirts were inches +above her knees! If only Aunt Jane had not insisted that she wear +Sophia's petticoats, to match the length of the borrowed dress! +Could she brave the crowded streets in such attire? One thought +of those she loved best brought instant decision. She could dare +anything for their sakes. With a shrinking, fast-beating heart. +She turned, and went quickly forward. + +She had not gone far, when ahead, whirling towards her, seemed a +familiar object. Could it be? There were other dark green +automobiles--but it was!--it was Dr. Dudley! + +Polly dashed into the road,--perilously near the track of the +approaching car,--wildly waving her hands. It stopped almost +at her feet, and then she was in Dr. Dudley's arms. + +For a moment she could only sob out her joy. + +"Where have you been, Polly, child? We were all so worried--" + +"I knew you would be! I knew it! But Aunt Jane made me come! +She held me tight and I could n't get away! Mr. Bean was going to +tell you last night; but she would n't let him--she sent him to +bed! And I tried to telephone to you just now, and I had n't any +five cents--oh, dear!" + +"Poor little girl!" and the Doctor's voice was very tender. + +His eyes passed beyond the curly head to the curb, where a knot of +men and boys regarded them curiously. + +"Where is the telephone, Polly?" he asked. + +"Up there, in the little grocery store." Her hand showed the +direction. + +He swung her gently into the auto, stepped in beside her, and +steered slowly towards the conspicuous sign. + +"I'll be back in a minute," he told her and disappeared between +the shelves of fruit and vegetables. + +Polly's eyes followed him lovingly. Presently he was beside her +again. + +"I wanted to let them know that you are safe," he smiled. "Now +we will see that Aunt Jane." + +They went up the long stairs, Polly in advance. Her aunt heard +her, and opened the kitchen door. + +"Where in the world--" she began sharply, but stopped at sight +of the tall man. + +"I did n't know anybody was with you," she muttered; and then +recognized Dr. Dudley. + +"I've had quite a hunt for you," he remarked. "You have moved +recently." + +"Yes," she assented, "when I was married; this is nearer his +ship. I s'pose you're after Polly," she added; "but I've made +up my mind not to let her stay at the hospital any longer. I need +her at home." + +"You will allow her to come to us for a day," he smiled, in a +tone that admitted of no refusal. + +"Ain't no need of her goin' back," she fretted; "I can send for +her things." + +"I'll agree to bring her luggage, when she comes for good," the +Doctor returned pleasantly' "but we want her for another day or +two, at the least. Polly, run and get ready! I shall be due at +the hospital before long." + +In the little dim bedroom the eager fingers made quick work with +the buttons. This was what Polly had not dared hope for, a day or +two more with those she loved! Presently she was back in her +pretty dress and shoes, and was fastening on her hat before the +little cracked mirror. OH, her locket! She had come near +forgetting it. + +"Please, Aunt Jane, can I have my locket and chain?" she asked, +facing the somewhat disturbed woman. + +"There's not call for you to wear it today," was the sullen +reply. + +"Oh, but I'd like it, please, if you don't mind!" Polly +insisted, gaining courage from Dr. Dudley's presence. + +With a toss of her head, Mrs. Bean stalked into the next room. +The moments passed. Still she did not return. When she did +appear, she looked actually troubled. + +"That Gregory must have got hold of it, and gone and hid it away, +or something!" she worried. "I've hunted high and low, but 't +ain't anywhere! Now you need n't go to bein' scared, Polly!" for +the little girl's face plainly showed her distress. "I guess you +can stand it if you don't have on any _geegaws_ to-day! I'll get +it fast enough when that kid comes home from school. But, oh, +he's a terror, Gregory is!" + +They went downstairs, Polly clinging to the Doctor's hand, as if +she feared that even now something might separate her from him. +In the auto, however, she settled back restfully in her seat. It +was so unspeakably good to feel a loving protector close beside. + +Dr. Dudley made quick time on the return trip to the hospital, and +David was waiting for them by the stepping-stone. + +"Hullo!" cried Polly blithely. + +"Hullo!" he responded; adding, "Oh! What made you give us such a +scare?" + +"I could n't help it; truly I could n't!" she replied. + +"Well, I'm glad you're back again!" David declared fervently, +insisting on carrying her bundle and her little white sweater. + +"Better run up to the ward, and let them have a sight of you," +the Doctor advised. "Did you tell your uncle?" turning to the +lad. + +"Yes, sir. And I called up Mrs. Jocelyn, too; but she said she +had just heard from you." + +Polly's eyes grew wide and grave. Had her friends all been +worrying like this? + +Dr. Dudley glanced at his watch. "I shall be busy until noon," +he said; "but, Polly, I wish you would come down directly after +dinner. I want to talk with you." + +She went upstairs wondering if the "talk" were to be about going +back to Aunt Jane's. She had not reached any conclusion when the +sight of Miss Lucy and Leonora put the troublesome matter from +their mind. + +"My precious!" breathed Miss Lucy in her ear. + +"Oh, you darling Polly!" squealed the little lame girl, with a +frantic hug. "We thought you must be kid--kid--kid'aped, or +whatever 't is!" she ended desperately. + +"I was--by Aunt Jane," laughed Polly; "but Dr. Dudley rescued +me." + +"Maybe he would n't, if it had n't been for Colonel Gresham," +returned Leonora, with a shake of her head, as the other children +jostled her carelessly, in their eagerness to be at the front. + +"What did the Colonel do?" queried Polly wonderingly' but the +rest claimed her, and the answer had to wait. + +"You've lost your locket!" cried Stella Pope. "Did you know +it?" + +"It is n't los exactly," Polly explained, instinctively +shielding the guilty lad as much as possible in her brief +narration of facts. + +"Aw, what a kid!" sniffed Johnny Ryan. + +"The horrid boy!" worried Mabel Camp. "What if they don't ever +find it!" + +"Where's yer hair ribbon?" asked Frederica, feeling responsible +for the safety of that bit of dainty blue, since she had aided in +its first use. + +Again Polly stood in defense. + +"My cousin Maude wore it to school, and she had n't come home +when I left." + +"What made yer let her?" mourned Frederica. "Bet yer I would +n't!" + +"Come, Polly, and change your dress," interposed Miss Lucy, +guessing somewhat of the truth from the little girl's reddening +cheeks and hesitating voice. + +In the dressing-room, behind the closed door, the nurse took Polly +in her arms. + +"It is so good to have you back again," she told her, with +kisses for emphasis. + +The words stabbed the child's heart. The time was to be so short! +Still Polly would not spoil to-day with to-morrow's nor next day's +troubles, and she summoned brave smiles and gay responses, until +she half forgot the dreary fourth-floor flat where she had passed +the night. + +Leonora caught an early chance to draw Polly away to a corner +where they could talk--or where she could, for she was bubbling +with excitement over the untold story of last night's doings. + +"My! I thought we'd go crazy when Mrs. Jocelyn telephoned to +know why you did n't come! There you'd had time to get to her +house over 'n' over again! Dr. Dudley just left ev'rything and +went off in his auto, and hunted and hunted, and you was n't +anywhere! The he told the police, and they went to lookin'!" + +"The police!" repeated Polly, big-eyed with astonishment. + +"Yes; but they could n't find you. Miss Lucy 'most cried, and +Dr. Dudley looked so sober I did n't dare speak to him. OH, it +was awful! We was sure you'd been kid--" Leonora hesitated, as +before. + +"Kidnaped," prompted Polly. + +"Oh, yes, kidnapped! I never can remember how it goes. Well, +David said he knew you had been, and Miss Lucy kep' saying, 'Oh, +no! it can't be!' But she looked as if she'd sink when she said +it." + +"And what was it about Colonel Gresham?" Polly asked. "You said +--" + +"Yes," Leonora hurried on, "I'm comin' to it! We never any of +us thought of your Aunt Jane, till Colonel Gresham he said had n't +you gone to see her. Dr. Dudley told him of course you wouln n't, +when you' started for Mrs. Jocelyn's, and the Colonel he said he +should try her anyway. So Dr. Dudley jumped right into his auto +and raced off to where you aunt used to live. When she was n't +there, and the folks did n't know where she'd gone, and her name +was n't in the directory at any new place, he did n't know _what_ +to do!" + +"She's married Mr. Bean," Poly put in, "so she'd Mrs. Bean +now." + +"Oh, maybe that's why he could n't find her! Well, he come home, +and he and Miss Lucy talked and talked, and High Price she talked, +too, and--" + +"High Price!" Poly broke out. + +"Yes, she felt awful about you bein' lost--my! I guess we all +did! You don't know! I did n't want to go to bed, and Miss Lucy +let me sit up, hoping we'd hear something; but finally I had to, +'cause there was a woman sick, and the Doctor had to stop huntin' +for you, and go and 'tend to her, and David went home, for there +was n't anybody any more to telephone to. This morning Dr. +Dudley he said he was going to find your Aunt Jane if she was in +this city, and the next thing we knew David come rushin' in, and +sayin' you was safe and sound--the Doctor had telephoned to +him. My! How glad we were! I never wanted to dance so much in +all my life! Say, why did n't you send word where you was?" + + +"I could n't." And Polly related something of her unhappy stay +in the house on Chestnut Street. + +She had not finished when David called up to know if Polly and +Leonora could be spared. He was alone in the office, and wanted +them. + +The lad was eager for Polly's story, and much of it had to be +retold. Then he disclosed news of his own. + +"We're going to move up to Uncle David's the first of next week. +Won't that be jolly? You can come over any time; it is so near." + +Leonora beamed her pleasure. Polly pushed back the tears. + +David's face shaded with sudden dismay. + +"You have n't got to go back to your Aunt Jane's?" he demanded +fiercely. + +Polly's head gave the answer. At the moment speech seemed +impossible. + +"You shall not!" he burst out. "If Dr. Dudley lets you go and +live with those--those heathen, I'll never speak to him again +as long as I live!" + +"Why, David Collins!" Polly's gentle voice was grieved and full +of astonishment. + +The pale, blue-eyed lad seemed to have vanished, and another to be +standing there before her. His eyes, grown suddenly dark, set in +that flaming face, gave him a most unnatural look. + +"I shall have to go--Aunt Jane says I must," she went on +sadly. "There's no other way." + +"There would be another way, if I was a man!" he raged. "Oh, oh! +I wish I were! I wish I were!" he cried passionately; and +throwing himself upon the couch, face downward, his shoulders +shook with sobs. + +Leonora bent her head on her arm, and wept silently. + +Polly was endeavoring to soothe them both when Dr. Dudley came in. + +Learning the cause of the tears, he remonstrated in his humorous +way, until Leonora smiled again; but David scorned such comfort, +refusing to move or to speak. Finally the Doctor started to +prepare the medicine he had come for, and the girls went upstairs, +Polly renewing to return directly after the noon meal. + + + +Chapter XIV + +Polly's "Anne Sisters" + + +Dr. Dudley's office was without an occupant when Polly peeped in. +The Doctor had not returned from dinner, and David had gone home +for the rest of the day. The little girl wandered about the room, +too full of vague dread to care for books, or even for the fine +collection of sea shells, which usually she never tired of. They +had been brought home from foreign shores by an old uncle of the +physician's, and now, ranged on their wide shelves, they gleamed +out from a farther corner of the office in all the delicate tints +of their wonderful family. + +But to-day Polly passed them by with only a sigh, remembering the +happy times that she and David and Leonora had had in their close +company, now playing that they were mermaids, come to tell them +strange tales of the under-seas, now holding them to their ears, +to catch the mysterious, fascinating songs of the ocean which they +were always singing. + +"Here already?" broke in the Doctor's pleasant voice. "I don't +believe they gave you much of a dinner." + +"Yes, it was good; but I was n't hungry this noon," Polly +replied, with a wan little smile. + +"You were in such a hurry to come down and see me that it took +away your appetite--was that it?" he laughed. + +"I don't know," was the sober answer. + +The Doctor glanced furtively at her face, and grew grave at once. +He squared some books and magazines upon the table, and then sat +down in his lounging-chair, pulling Polly to his knee. + +"I want to know more about that Aunt Jane of yours," he began. +"Was you mother her sister, or--" + +"Oh, no, she was n't!" Polly interrupted. "Mamma was an only +child, just like me." + +"And your father--did he have brothers or sisters?" + +"I don't know," she answered slowly. + +"He died when I was three years old. I can only just remember +him." + +"Do you recollect what Aunt Jane's name was before she married? +Was it May?" + +Polly shook her head doubtfully. "I can't seem to think," she +mused. "Oh! I guess it was Carter, 'cause she's always saying +that Maude is clear Carter, just like her folds, and Marcus is all +Simpson, like Uncle Gregory." + +"What was you mother's maiden name, her name when she was a +girl?" the Doctor next questioned. + +"Phebe Illingworth. Grandma Illingworth was her mother. She +lived with us. She died the year before mamma did." + +"Thistledown," went on the Doctor, "some of my questions may +sound rude, but it is important that I know a little more than I +ever have known of your family history. I think you told me that +your mother gave piano lessons." + +"Yes, and grandma gave lessons on the violin and guitar, and +singing lessons too." + +"And what became of the piano and other musical instruments?" +asked the Doctor quickly. + +"I think Aunt Jane sold them. She sold 'most everything. Some +of the furniture she's got now." + +"Was it nice furniture?" + +"I think it was lovely. There was a beautiful sideboard--that +was grandma's--with carved birds on it, and the wood was light +brown--kind of yellowish--and so pretty!" + +"Was that sold?" + +Polly nodded sadly. + +"Did you mother ever go to the bank, do you remember?" + +"Oh, yes, she did! She used to carry a little book." + +"Did you always have plenty of money to use--for food and +clothes and so on?" + +"I guess so. We had nice things to eat, and pretty things to +wear." + +"You never heard of any will, I suppose?" + +The curls shook slowly. + +"Your mother was not sick long, was she?" the Doctor asked +gently. + +"She was never sick. She was giving a music lesson, one +afternoon, and she fainted away--they could n't make her +live." The sorrowful voice softened almost to a whisper, and the +golden head drooped to Dr. Dudley's shoulder. + +He touched his lips to the white forehead, and tightened his clasp +of the slender little form. + +"I am sorry enough to have to bring all this back," he said; +"but, Thistledown, I must discover a way, if possible, to keep +you from that woman. I want to find out just how much legal right +she has in regard to you. If we could only obtain sufficient +evidence to prove that she is not a proper person to care for you +--" + +Polly had suddenly sat up straight, her eyes round with the +startling, beautiful thought. + +"Do you mean," she broke in excitedly, "that I should n't have +to go back to Aunt Jane?" + +The Doctor bowed. "But--" he began. + +"Oh, then I can stay with you!" she burst out. "She is n't +proper, she is n't nice, she is n't--anything!" + +"I know, my dear!" smiled the Doctor. "But such things are hard +to prove. I shall keep you, Thistledown, just as long as the law +will let me; but the law must be obeyed, and we can't tell how +things will come out." + +"Won't I have to go back to-morrow?" she asked eagerly. + +"No, indeed," he assured her. "Were you dreading that? Don't be +afraid, Thistledown! Keep up a stout heart! You shall stay here +for the present anyway." He looked at his watch. "I think I'll +find Jack at home now," he said; and, letting Polly slip to her +feet, he placed her in his chair and crossed over to the +telephone. + +Polly listened breathlessly. She knew that "Jack" must mean +only Jack Brewster, a lawyer of the city, who had been a college +classmate of the Doctor's. The two were close friends. + +"That you, Jack?" Polly heard. "Yes. I want to see you +professionally, as soon as possible. No," laughing; "but it is +important. Can you come up this evening? All right. Good-bye." + +"Jack Brewster will do his best for us," the Doctor said, coming +back. "He says he will be here at seven or a little after. I +think it probably that he will wish to ask you a few questions; +but you won't be afraid of him. He is one of the gentlest men I +ever knew--and the strongest," he added. + +"I am not afraid of anybody that is your friend," returned +Polly. + +The Doctor smiled. "A very pretty compliment!" he told her; but +she gave his praise scant notice. + +"I wonder," she said, "if you would like to see the little book +mama wrote about my Anne sisters." + +"You what?" he queried. + +"My Anne sisters." + +Only his twinkling eyes disclosed his amusement. "Ancestors you +mean, don't you?" he corrected gently. + +"Maybe," doubtfully; "but there are lots of Annes in it that are +related to me." + +"Where is the book?" + +"Right upstairs, in 'Under the Lilacs.' Don't you remember, you +went down to Aunt Jane's, and got some of my books when I was able +to sit up?" + +"I recollect," he nodded. + +"Well, that was why I sent for this one 'specially, because I +knew it had the little book init, and mamma told me always to keep +it. So I thought I'd better have it with me." + +"Run up and get it, child! It may be--" Polly was gone. + +It was indeed a very little book that she put in the Doctor's +hand, simply a few sheets of small note paper sewed together. + +"It has about the Illingworth family in one part, and about the +May folds in the other," Polly explained; but it is to be doubted +if Dr. Dudley heard her, so eagerly was he scanning those lists of +names. He clutched at one forlorn thread of hope, and as he read, +the feeble thread waxed into a cord of strength. + +"Polly--" he began brightly, and then stopped. After all he +could not be sure, and he must not raise happy anticipations only +to see them blasted. His face shaded, and he finished the +sentence quite differently from what he had intended. He went on +gravely, "Did the Simpsons take charge of everything after your +mother went? Was nobody else there?" + +"Not to stay, except Mrs. Brooks, who lived downstairs. She was +n't there much. I guess Aunt Jane did n't want her." + +"Probably not," remarked the Doctor grimly. + +"Is the book any good?" she asked wistfully. + +Again he was tempted to tell her, and again he restrained himself. + +"I think it will be of use to us," he replied. + +"Did you see all the Annes?" she queried. "Are n't there a lot +of them?" + +He nodded laughingly. "It is a good name and I have discovered +yours among them." + +"Did n't you know it before? It is Marry Anne, after my great-aunt +Mary Anne Illingworth. I don't like it so well as Polly." + +"Or Thistledown," he added gaily. His spirits had risen +wonderfully since seeing the little book. + +The sudden change had its effect on Polly, and when she went +upstairs it was with something of her accustomed blitheness. + +The afternoon passed pleasantly, but after supper the little girl +grew unaccountably nervous. She started at every ring of the +telephone, and gave queer, absent-minded answers to Leonora's +questions. Finally Miss Lucy, comprehending the situation, +proposed a game; but Polly, usually the quickest of the children, +allowed the others to eclipse her, while her ears were strained +for the expected summons. At last, when the message came, she +started downstairs with a fluttering heart, her nerves a-quiver +with irrational fear. + +At any other time she would have been pleased at the thought of +meeting Dr. Dudley's friend of whom she had heard so many +delightful things; but now a vague terror possessed her, lest he, +being a part of that awful law,--which to her was only a name +of dread,--might send her directly back to Aunt Jane's. + +Polly rarely had a fall, so light and sure of foot was she; but at +the top of the flight she stumbled and came near going headlong. +This, turning her thoughts suddenly into another path, seemed +somewhat to steady her quaking nerves, and when she reached the +office door she was ready to smile a brave, though shy, greeting +to the lawyer. + +Jack Brewster was in appearance the opposite of Dr. Dudley. The +physician was tall and broad-shouldered, with no surplus flesh; +yet none would have called him thin. The lawyer was slight almost +as a boy, of fair complexion, with an abundance of wavy brown +hair, and eyes that had a habit of shining as if their owner had +just received a bit of good news. They shone now, as he took one +of Polly's little hands in both his own, and told her how glad he +was to make her acquaintance. + +"I have n't any little girl at my house," he went on smilingly, +"but there's a boy who makes things pretty lively. When I +started to come away this evening he hugged my leg, and kept +saying, 'No sir-ee-sir! No sir-ee-sir!' till I finally had to go +back and tell him his usual bedtime story." + +"How old is he?" asked Polly, her fears quite forgotten. + +"He will be two years, the third of next month. Bob," whirling +around to the Doctor, "why have n't you brought Miss Polly out to +see us? I'm ashamed of you!" + +The physician laughed. "I am not very neighborly, I'll admit," +he returned. "Sick people have crowded out the well ones lately. +I know well folks will keep." + +"Then the only way for me to get hold of you is to feign a chill +or a fever or a broken leg--all right! Thank you for the cue! +And now, Miss Polly," he went on cheerily, "I want you hones +opinion of that aunt of yours. Tell me, please, just how she +makes you feel." + +"Wh-y," hesitated the surprised little girl, "if I should say +right out, I'm afraid it would n't sound very polite or--" + +"Don't think anything about politeness just now, please. Open +your heart frankly, and let me see what is there in regard to her. +Don't be afraid to say exactly what you think. It may help me +very much. I want to be able to look at her through your clear +eyes." + +A shadow darkened the fair little face, and pain crept in, and +stayed. + +"She seems," Polly began slowly, "like a dreadful dream--you know, +when you wake up all shivery, and are so glad it is n't real. +Only"--with a little catch--"Aunt Jane is real! Sometimes I feel +sick all over when I think about her, and going back there--oh," +she burst out passionately, "I'd rather die than go back to live +with her! Mr. Brewster, don't make me go! Please don't make me +go!" The words came with a half sob, but she fought the tears +back, and her appealing eyes searched his face for hope. + +"My dear child," he exclaimed tenderly, "you must not worry one +bit more about this! You have given me exactly what I want. Now +leave the matter with Dr. Dudley and me. Will you agree to do +this?" + +"If I can," she answered softly; "but Aunt Jane is very hard to +forget!" + +"I dare say she is," smiled the lawyer; "but I think you can do +it. You know the best way to forget a disagreeable thing?" + +No, Polly did not. + +"It is to keep thinking of other things, pleasant things, until +the mind is so full of them that there is n't a scrap of room for +whatever is annoying. You try it, and see if I am not right!" + +"There are lots of pleasant things to think of," smiled Polly. + +"To be sure there are! One is, that Dr. Dudley is going to bring +you out to my house some morning to stay all day." + +"Oh," beamed Polly, "that would be nice!" She looked across at +the Doctor. + +He nodded happily. + +"If he does n't do it," and the lawyer made a comical grimace in +Dr. Dudley's direction, "I'll come after you myself." + +Polly gurgled out her little laugh, which sounded as if she had +already begun to follow the lawyer's advice, and she thanked him +very sweetly for his invitation and his promise. Presently she +went upstairs, and Miss Lucy was relieved to see that she appeared +more like her usual self. But she was very quiet, repeating +nothing of what had passed in the office. It had been a hard day, +and Polly was glad when the time came for her to creep into bed. + +On Saturday Miss Lucy and her small assistant had a busy morning. +There was scant time to think about Aunt Jane. When she did +appear in Polly's mind, the little girl remembered Mr. Brewster's +counsel, and hastened to perform her task in hand with exceeding +faithfulness, putting on fresh pillows slips with as much care as +if the welfare of the ward depended on their being straight to a +thread. Her efforts were successful, for they pushed away Aunt +Jane. So the forenoon passed, leaving her at dinner time a little +more tired than usual, but free from the worry of the day before. + +Soon after the meal Miss Lucy went downstairs. When she came back +Polly was playing Authors with Leonora, Mabel, Frederica, and +Stella. She stopped beside Polly's chair. + +"Dr. Dudley wants you," she smiled. "Run right along, and I will +take your place." + +Polly went, wondering, but fearing little. Miss Lucy's face was +too radiant to betoken anything unpleasant. + +Dr. Dudley held out his arms, and the little girl ran into them. + +"Glorious news, Thistledown! It is all settled! 'Aunt Jane' has +no right to you whatever!" + +"Oh!" she gasped, and went suddenly white. + +The Doctor dropped into a chair, and took her in his lap, letting +her lean against him. + +"I'm glad you are going to school next week," he declared. "You +will get out of doors more. I'm not going to have you paling up +in this way every little while. You are in the house too much." + +"I'm all right," she argued. "Tell me about it, please!" + +"To begin with," he smiled, "these people are no relatives of +yours." + +Polly's eyes rounded with amazement. + +"And Aunt Jane is n't my aunt at all?" + +"Not the least mite of an aunt," he laughed. "It was a hard +thing for her to admit; but she had to do it." + +"You have seen her?" queried Polly. + +"Mr. Brewster and I were there this forenoon. It seems that she +lived next door to you at the time your father died, and, +according to her own statement, she gave you mother a great deal +of assistance at that time. It is easy to see how she made your +mother feel under obligations to her, and the rest came about as +it naturally might with such a woman. When she saw her chance for +gain she improved it. She has defrauded you out of household +goods and money; but Jack thinks we should hardly make anything by +taking the matter into court. There is nearly two thousand +dollars still to your credit in the bank, and that shall stay +there till you are of age. She was allowed only a certain sum per +week for your support--the rest she could not touch; but she +did what she pleased, it seems, with the money received for +furniture and so on. She has no property that we can get hold of, +except the things which belonged to your mother. Those we can +take, if you will tell me what they are." + +"Oh! Can I have mamma's little rosewood work-table! I saw it +there the other day." + +The Doctor was busy with pad and pencil. + +"The sooner we get them the better, so think hard now, and I'll +note them down." + +"There's a good deal of china, and some nice glass dishes, and +the silver spoons and forks--I could tell which they were if I +could see them." + +"You are going to pick them out, with Mr. Brewster and me." + +"I'm going there?" Polly cried. + +Dr. Dudley nodded. "You're not afraid?" He smiled reassuringly. + +"Oh, no, not with you!" she replied. "There's two trunks," she +went on, "with some of mamma's clothes in. A good many are worn +out--she wore 'em, and make 'em over for the girls and me. +Then there are all our books, and three or four chairs, and a +lovely clock--oh, and a great pile of mamma's music, with some +pieces that she wrote herself!" + +The list was longer than Dr. Dudley had expected. When Polly +could think of nothing more, he called up the lawyer by telephone, +making an appointment to meet him. Shortly afterwards he put +Polly in the auto, and they started for Mrs. Bean's. + +On the way the little girl thought of her precious locket. + +"We shall get it if we can," the Doctor told her. "Mrs. Bean +appears to be honest about that. She believes the boy has it; but +he professes innocence. I fancy she will keep him out of our way +if possible." + +They took the lawyer in at his office, and Polly finished her ride +sitting on his knee. + +When Mrs. Bean learned their errand, she turned, then white, and +seemed greatly excited. At first she was inclined to resent their +coming as an intrusion, declaring, "There ain't much belongin' to +the kid anyhow." But, as earlier in the day, she quailed before +Mr. Brewster's firm, quiet speech, and sullenly led the way to the +various articles called for. Finally nothing remained unchecked +on the list except the two trunks. + +"I h'ain't got no trunks," the woman bristled. "You've seen my +rooms an' all there is in 'em! Them trunks prob'ly was sold along +with other things." + +"Why, Aunt Jane," put in Polly, "they were here just before I +was hurt. I remember, because--" + +"Huh!" she cackled. "I was n't here then, an' I guess they +wa'n't!" + +"I mean where we lived then," corrected Polly. + +"Wal, they ain't here nor there now," she insisted. + +"Can't we go up attic?" questioned Polly. "You said, the other +day, there was an attic to--" + +"I hain't got nothin' up there," Mrs. Bean broke in, with +flaming face. + +"Will you allow us to look through it, please?" The lawyer's +voice was low, but tense. + +"There ain't no call for you to go paradin' up there," she +snapped. "Pretty how d' y' do, if you can't take my word for +it!" + +"It is an easy matter to be mistaken," Mr. Brewster smiled. +"Have you a key to the apartment? Or is it open?" + +Mrs. Bean took time for reply, narrowing her eyes, as if in deep +thought. She was quick to see the loophole of escape which the +lawyer had shown her. Still she hesitated. + +"Wal," she muttered finally, "it's barely possible I was +thinkin' o' some other trunks; but I don't b'lieve I was. I do' +know; I'm driven to death. I sh'd think I'd forgit my own name, +slavin' 's I have to! 'T won't do no hurt, I s'pose, for you to go +up an' see." + +The trunks were found, as Mr. Brewster had been sure they would +be. He opened both, and he and Polly hastily looked over their +contents. Besides bundles of old letters, photographs, and +numerous little mementoes, there was much of value,--fine table +and bed linen, and silk dress, some exquisite laces, and a little +box of odd pieces of jewelry. + +"Oh!" Polly burst out, "I forgot grandma's watch! And mama's +coral pin and her topaz ring!" + +"They're downstairs," volunteered Mrs. Bean. "I forgot them, +too!" + +After the trunks were locked, and the keys in Mr. Brewster's +pocket, he and the Doctor carried them into the hallway. While +they were busy, there was a clatter of feet on the lower stairs, +and Mrs. Bean slipped hurriedly away. + +"I guess the children have come," said Polly. + +But when the three reached the apartment below, no young folds +were visible, and the lawyer silently concluded to defer his +attempt with Gregory until another time. + +Another later Polly's goods were brought to the hospital, and +Leonora and several other children, who were able to be +downstairs, were given the unbounded delight of seeing them +unloaded. + + + +Chapter XV + +A Bid For Polly + + +Early on Monday morning Polly received an urgent request from Mrs. +Jocelyn that she begin her delayed visit that very hour. So, as +school was to open on Wednesday, it was decided that the little +girl should accept the renewed invitation, and that Dr. Dudley +should fetch her home on the succeeding afternoon. + +"By that time," observed David, "we shall be all moved, and we +can go to school together in the morning." + +"But, oh, dear!" groaned Leonora, "that Aunt Jane will get you +again, sure! Oh, Dr. Dudley, don't let her go alone, please +don't!" + +Polly laughed happily. It was hard for Leonora to realize that +Mrs. Bean had no more power over her beloved friend. + +But Dr. Dudley did not laugh. Leonora had been of the band of +anxious ones on that night of suspense, and he could understand +how she still feared to have Polly venture for without a +protector. + +"You need not worry," he assured her. "I shall not let Polly out +of my sight until she is safely inside Mrs. Jocelyn's house." + +"I could go alone just as well," smiled the little girl. "There +is n't any danger." + +"It is too long a walk," returned the Doctor, "and don't you +dare to come back, young lady, until you come with me!" He shook +his finger at her threateningly. + +She giggled, while David remarked, with a mischievous twinkle:-- + +"That would be a good way to keep her there--you need n't go +after her!" + +"Do you want me to stay away, David Collins?" demanded Polly. + +"No, I don't," he admitted laughing. + +"Oh, don't talk about her staying away!" pleaded Leonora. "We +did, just in fun, last time, and then she was lost!" + +"Oh, you funny, blessed Leonora!" cried Polly, putting her arms +around her friend's neck, "I'm not going to get lost, or stay +away, either--only one night. I guess you can stand it for +just one night." + +Dr. Dudley saw his charge inside Mrs. Jocelyn's door, according to +his promise; but the little lady told him that he need not come +after her, for she would bring her back on the following day. + +Mrs. Jocelyn's home was in a delightful quarter of the city, +opposite a park of many acres. The house was dignified mansion, +full of stately old furniture, and if it had not been for its +owner's cheery hospitality it would have been rather awe-inspiring +to a little girl like Polly. But Polly, having been several times +a guest in the big house, now felt quite at home, and ran up and +down the polished oaken stairs and through the grand, dimly +lighted hallways as merrily as if she had always been used to such +imposing surroundings. + +"It is too bad Dorothy could n't stay over till this week," Mrs. +Jocelyn said; "but never mind! She'll come again before long, +and then you'll see her. We'll have such pleasant times to-day +and to-morrow, that she won't be missed. This afternoon are going +shopping, and you are to buy presents for everybody you like." + +"Oh!" beamed Polly. + +"And to-morrow morning," her hostess went on, "we are invited to +a musicale across the street, at Mrs. Trowbridge's, where we shall +the wonderful little violinist who is being made so much of by +musicians." + +"Won't that be lovely!" cried Polly. "I have n't heard any music +in ever so long, except at church, and David's singing." + +Mrs. Jocelyn smiled appreciatively. "I knew you would enjoy it," +she said. "Now I shall be busy for a few minutes, and you can do +anything you choose,--mouse around the library, or play on the +piano, or make out a list of what you'd like to give your friends. +We will start soon after luncheon. You won't have time for much; +I'm only going to make a salad dressing which I fancy I can mix a +little better than Tilly can. Then I'll help you with the +presents." + +Polly had taken lessons of her mother, and her fingers still +remembered bits of the pieces she had learned; so the piano was +her first choice. Lured on by the familiar airs, she played and +played, forgetting all but the music she loved. + +Mrs. Jocelyn returned from the kitchen, and, unnoticed, slipped +into a seat back of the player. + +Finally Polly turned around. + +"I felt you there!" she laughed. "Have I hindered you?" + +"You have been charming me. Why, child, I did n't know you could +play so well! And all out of practice, too! I should n't think +you could recollect a note." + +"My fingers seem to," Polly smiled. "I'll think I don't know a +piece, and then my hands go right along and play it." + +"I wish mine would," laughed Mrs. Jocelyn. "But I've let my +music go too long; it will never come back." Her last tones were +a little sad, but she quickly recovered her gayety. "Suppose we +think over now," she proposed, "what you would like to purchase +at the stores, and where we shall need to go. Then we can the +better map out our afternoon." + +Polly was all eagerness at once, and her hostess was no less +interested. + +"Are n't there some new girls in the ward who have n't any +dolls?" + +"Yes," Polly answered, "there are five or six. Let me see," +tapping off the names on her fingers, "there's Mabel, and Stella, +and Frederica, and Angiola, and Trotty,--she's only four,-- +and Mary Pender, and Ida Regan,--she's real pretty; that makes +seven: I think that's all." + +"You shall choose a doll for each one of them. You will know +better than I just what will suit." + +"Oh, it will be such fun!" chuckled Polly. "And you sure so good +to do it!" + +"Pshaw!" exclaimed the little lady. "I'm only being good to +myself. I have just begun to learn what money is for, and I am +enjoying it--for the first time in years!" A shadow stole over +the wrinkled pink-and-white face; but a smile quickly chased it +away. "Now, my love, whose name shall head your list of especial +friends?" + +"I don't know," Polly hesitated. "Do you mean children?" + +"I mean anybody that you would like to honor with a gift. +Suppose you begin with Miss Price--Miss Lucy Price." + +"Oh, I'd love to! But what could I get?" + +"Plenty of things to choose from,--books and jewelry and all +sorts of knick-knacks, besides pretty bits to wear." + +"I think she'd like a new hand bag," ventured Polly. "Hers is so +gray and shabby. Would it cost too much?" + +"No, indeed!" laughed Mrs. Jocelyn. "You shall buy the very +prettiest one we can find. But before I forget it I must see +about something else. I want your picture, and I know your +hospital friends would like it, too. Wait a minute, and I'll call +up Fisher, and secure an appointment for this afternoon if +possible." + +She disappeared in the tiny room back of the staircase, set apart +for the telephone, and Polly heard her voice, as she talked over +the wire. "I have promised to have you there at three o'clock," +she announced presently. "That will give us a good two hours for +shopping, if we don't talk too long over our luncheon." + +"Am I dressed all right?" queried Polly, anxiously; adding, "Who +will want my picture? The folks at the hospital see me all the +time." + +"Oh, you precious bit of humanity!" cried the little lady, +taking Polly in her arms. "If I should tell you that you will +make so sweet a picture that everybody will want it, would you +believe it?" + +"No," Polly laughed, "because it would n't be true." + +Mrs. Jocelyn kissed her for answer, and then asked what she would +like to give to David. + +"He has a knife," mused Polly, scowling her forehead over the +problem. + +"How would a sterling silver fruit knife do?" suggested the +little lady. + +That was decided to be just the thing, and went down on the list. +For Dr. Dudley, in addition to the photograph, Polly thought a +nice handkerchief would be suitable gift, and Mrs. Jocelyn wrote, +"Box of H." opposite his name. + +"Could I give Leonora Hewitt something to wear?" ventured Polly. +"She thinks so much of pretty things; but she can't have many, +because her father is poor, and there are a lot of children +besides her. Leonora is a sweet girl--and, oh, is n't it +lovely? Dr. Dudley says now that she will get over her lameness, +and be able to walk as well as anybody!" + +"That is delightful!" agreed Mrs. Jocelyn. "You shall surely get +a beautiful something for Leonora." + +"Don't you think a pink hair ribbon would be nice?" Polly asked. + +Her hostess smiled over the modesty of the gift, and was about to +suggest some article of jewelry; but she finally let it go as +Polly had chose, only adding on the paper, "and sash." + +"We may change every one of these, when we come to the real +selection," laughed the little lady; "but the list will be a +guide." + +Nobody was forgotten, not even Miss Hortensia Price, an +"Illustrated Browning" being against her name. + +They were on their way shortly after one o'clock, in Mrs. +Jocelyn's stately coach, drawn by the handsome iron-grays that +were Polly's admiration. It would be hard to say which enjoyed +the shopping most, Polly in her innocent delight of giving, or +the old little lady who was fast growing young in her now-found +life. With a carriage full of bundles, they drove up to the +photographer's precisely at the hour appointed, and Polly, radiant +from her joyful experience, made a picture that charmed the artist +as well as his patron. + +The next morning's musicale was quite the feast that Polly had +anticipated, and Mrs. Jocelyn's was a twofold enjoyment. The +little girl had feared that her white dress was too wrinkled for +grand a party; so her hostess's maid had smoothed it into its +original perfection, and, to make good the hair ribbon that had +been lost, Mrs. Jocelyn had bought an even prettier one--the +palest blue sprinkled with forget-me-nots, and sash too match. + +After luncheon came the delightful task of giving the presents +pretty holiday touches with fancy tissue papers and gay ribbons. + +"We're having the best part of it, are n't we?" chuckled Polly, +tilting her head to one side as she tied a pink baby ribbon around +Leonora's dainty box. + +The little lady did not instantly answer; then, dropping her work, +she caught the surprised child in her arms with almost a sob. + +"O Polly, Polly!" she cried passionately, "I must have you! I +must! I must! You have taught me how to live, and you belong to +me! O Polly! Will you come?" She held her off, gazing pleadingly +into her face. + +"What--do you mean?" faltered the little girl. + +"My darling! Did I frighten you? I mean I want you for my own +dear daughter! I have n't said anything before, because I feared +the woman you have supposed was your aunt would not give you up. +But now that you are free I feel that I must have you? I meant to +speak to Dr. Dudley first; but I could n't wait, dearest! Don't +you want to come and live with me? I know it's a gloomy old +house, but I will make it all over into the sunshiniest home you +ever saw. You shall have everything you wish! I will buy you the +very prettiest pair of Shetland ponies I can find, and the +loveliest little carriage! You can take your friends driving +every day!" + +"That would be beautiful," responded Polly, with a faint smile. + +"And you shall have the nicest doll house you ever heard of, and +a whole set of furniture for your biggest doll! I'll fit you up +two of the prettiest rooms in the house, and furnish them in white +and blue! You shall have a new piano and take lessons of the very +best master, and next summer we will go abroad and see all the +wonders of Europe! Oh, there's no end to the happy things we'll +do, if you will come and be my little girl! You will; won't you, +Polly?" + +"Why, I--don't know!" gasped the child. "You take my breath +away!" She looked actually distressed. + +"Poor darling!" The little lady folded Polly in her arms. "Of +course you can't make up your mind all in a minute! I've thought +of it so long, I did n't realize that it was news to you. I'm +such an impatient body! Talk it over with Dr. Dudley, and he will +make things all clear. Now we'll forget it, and finish up these +packages. What do yo suppose Leonora will say to her new +ribbons?" + +The voice was gay, so sure was the little lady that Polly, +counseled by the far-seeing doctor, would make quick choice of so +auspicious an offer. + +But Polly could not easily be won back to her former blitheness. +She finished her part of the task in an absent-minded manner; yet +by the time she was on her way to deliver her presents she was +more talkative and merry. + +So splendid a coach was seldom seen on the poor, narrow street +where Brida lived, and big-eyed babies and listless loungers +watched its progress. Brida was at school; but her mother +received with loud expressions of gratitude and praise the pretty +doll carriage which Polly had brought. + +Elsie, in a still narrower, dirtier street, had a similar gift; +while for the others of Polly's hospital friends who had returned +to their homes there were books and paper dolls, pocket knives and +boxes of candy. It was a pleasant hour, yet Polly was not sorry +when the carriage turned towards the hospital. + +Mrs. Jocelyn would not go in, and the little girl bade her good-bye +with a clinging embrace. + +"I love you de-arly!" she whispered: which made the little lady +smile happily to herself all the way up the street. + +Nobody was in the Doctor's office, and Polly lingered by the pile +of packages which the footman had deposited on the couch. She was +pulling out David's present from under the others, the present +that had finally been changed from a fruit knife to a flute, when +a voice from the doorway called out:-- + +"Hul-lo, Pol-lee!" + +She turned, to see David's merry face. + +"You can't guess what I've got for you!" chuckled the lad. + +"You could n't possibly guess what I've got for you!" she +retorted gaily. + +David's eyes opened wonderingly, falling on the pile of bundles. +Then he went back to his own secret. + +Putting his hand in his pocket, he drew forth what Polly had +feared she should never see again. + +"My locket and chain!" she cried. + +David grinned happily, and passed over the necklace. + +"Where did you get it?" she questioned. + +"You may thank Cornelius for it," he told her. "I met him down +on Grant Street, and--I don't know what made me--I happened +to speak of your losing this. He was interested all at once, and +wanted me to tell him just how it looked. When I said the locket +was set with turquoises, he clapped his hand on his side and cried +out, 'I bet yer that was it! I bet yer 't was!' It seems he'd +seen a boy--only this morning--showing a locket to a little +kid, and he thought then it was queer he should be having a girl's +locket round that way. Cornelius said he could get it easy enough +of the boy had it with him. So we went round to the school, and +waited till 't was out. He had to go on an errand for his father +this afternoon, and so was excused early. + +"Burt Sehl is the boy's name, and Cornelius and I walked along +with him till we got off the street--Cornel' was sharp enough +not to tackle him near the school. As soon as the crowd thinned +out, he asked him if he had that locket, and at first Burt put up +a bluff. Finally he admitted that he got it from Greg. Simpson; +said he swapped a lot of tops and marbles for it." + +"I should n't suppose he'd have given it up," cried Polly +excitedly. + +David laughed. "He did n't without a tussle; but Cornelius was +more than a match for him--my! Don't I wish I were as strong as +he!" + +"You will be some day," encouraged Polly. "But I'm glad I chose +that book for Cornelius--it's all about a knight!" + +"What book?" queried David. + +"Oh, the book I left at his home for him this afternoon! I +forgot," and she caught up the long parcel for David. "I hope +you'll like that," she said. + +The boy's eyes glistened when he saw what it was. + +"Oh, you don't know how many times I've wished I had a flute!" +he cried, fingering the little instrument delightedly. + +"What's going on here?" called Dr. Dudley, from the open door. + +"These are going _in here!_" flashed Polly, deftly transferring +a square, thin package from the couch to the Doctor's pocket. + +It caught and held by one corner, but the physician did not leave +it long. He looked at it critically, and then laid it on the +table, and began untying the bright ribbon which bound it. + +"You have seen the hole in my Sunday handkerchief!" exclaimed +the Doctor, dramatically, his eyes a-twinkle as he opened the box. + +Polly and David laughed. + +The handkerchiefs were fine and dainty enough to suit the most +fastidious gentleman, and Dr. Dudley expressed sincere admiration +for the gift. + +Then the story of the locket had to be told again, and at its end +David discovered that it was time for him to be at his new home. + +Polly began to look over the packages, picking out what she wished +to carry upstairs at once. + +"Are n't you going to tell me about your visit?" asked the +Doctor, dropping into his easiest chair with a luxurious sigh of +relief, after a hard day. + +The little girl's face grew suddenly grave. In the pleasure of +the last hour she had forgotten the trouble that had been looming +ahead of her ever since Mrs. Jocelyn's proposition. She laid +Mabel's doll back on the pile, and came slowly over to the Doctor. + + + +Chapter XVI + +A Secret + + +"You went shopping, I observe," began Dr. Dudley, tentatively. + +"Yes," responded Polly, balancing herself on the arm of his +chair. "Mrs. Jocelyn bought lots of things for me to give to +people. We bade out a list--or she did. She let me choose." + +"That was kind." + +"Yes," Polly assented, and then studied the rug for a moment. + +The Doctor waited. + +"We went to a musicale, this forenoon, at Mrs. Trowbridge's," +she resumed. "The little boy was there who plays the violin so +beautifully. Mrs. Jocelyn got me a new hair ribbon and sash to +wear." + +"Did you enjoy those better than the music?" twinkled the +doctor. + +"Oh, no!" The tone was almost reproachful. "One piece the boy +played was lovely. I hated to have him stop. I wish I could play +as well as he--no, I don't either! I don't want to!" she +burst out fiercely. + +Dr. Dudley glanced at her quizzically. "You seem to be a young +lady of changeable opinions," he smiled. + +Her lip quivered; but she struggled hard against tears. + +"Suppose you tell me all about it, Thistledown," the Doctor said +gently. + +"Oh, don't let me go and be her little girl!" she broke out. +"Don't! don't! I'll do anything, if you'll only let me stay +with you!" + +He drew her down into his lap, and soothed her with tender words. + +"Nobody shall ever take you from me against your will, Thistledown!" +His voice was tensely unnatural. "Does Mrs. Jocelyn wish to adopt +you? Did she say so?" + +"I don't know about adopting. She wants me to go and live with +her. She said I could have everything, if I only would,--a new +piano, and lessons, and two rooms all furnished beautiful, and a +doll house, and go to Europe, and a pony--two of 'em--and, +oh, I don't remember half!" + +And you are sure you wish to give up all that grandeur for this +old codgery doctor who has n't any money?" + +"You are n't old, and you are n't cod--the other thing--and +I love you! Do you--do you want me to go?" she sobbed. + +"Thistledown,"--and his voice was very tender,--"I think +such an arrangement as Mrs. Jocelyn proposes would break my heart. +Still, if you really would be happy in going to her, I trust I +should be unselfish and brave enough to give you up. But I am +gladder than you can guess that you have chosen the life with +me." + +"I could n't choose any other way; but I love her, I lover her +ever so much!" Polly sighed. "I'm afraid she will feel bad not +to have me go. Oh, I wish there did n't so many folks want me-- +first Aunt Jane, and now her!" + +"It must be rather troublesome to be in such demand," the Doctor +smiled. + +"It is," responded Polly between a laugh and a sob. + +The sat for a while in silence, Polly's head nestled on the broad +shoulder. + +Finally Dr. Dudley spoke. "Can you keep a secret?" + +"I think I could--I know I could," she answered slowly; "but +I never have any to keep." + +"I am going to let you into one," he smiled; "but you must n't +breathe a word of it to anybody." + +"Oh, I won't! I won't tell it as long as I live!" she declared +solemnly. + +He laughed. "This will not be so great a tax on your patience as +all that. I hope the secret will be out in a month. The +thistledown, what should you say if I should tell you that Miss +Lucy and I are going to be married?" + +Polly sat up straight, her eyes round with astonishment. + +"Truly?" she cried. + +"Truly!" he nodded. + +"Why-ee! I never thought as you like Miss Lucy very much! You +acted just as if you like High Price better!" + +The Doctor's shoulders shook with soft laughter. + +"And won't Miss Lucy be nurse up in the ward any more?" Poly +queried. + +"Not after we are married. We are going to housekeeping. You +know the little brown cottage just beyond Colonel Gresham's?" + +"The one with vines all over the piazzas?" + +"Yes. That is to be our home." + +Polly had dropped back on the Doctor's shoulder, and he, absorbed +in his happy dreams, did not look down to note the shadow that +suddenly swept all joy from the little face. When she spoke +again, it was the tone rather than the words that brought him to +himself with a pang of compunction. + +"That--won't be so very far away," she faltered. + +"Oh, Polly!" with a quick tightening clasp, "you did n't suppose +we would leave you behind?" + +She glanced up in sudden wonder and hope. + +"Our home would n't be home without you. You are going with us, +to be our own little daughter! We have it all planned; it has +only awaited your sanction." + +Polly lay very still, big teardrops trickling down her cheeks. + +"You want to go, Thistledown?" the Doctor asked softly. + +"Oh," she breathed, "I don't--dare--speak, for fear--it +is n't real! It is so beautiful!" She stroked his big hand with +her slender little fingers. + +"It is very real," he smiled. "You need n't be afraid. We +cannot give you the splendid things that you would have with Mrs. +Jocelyn; but I can promise you all the love that any little girl +could wish for. We want to make your life so happy that you will +lose sight of troublesome times that have gone before." + +"I could n't help being happy with you and Miss Lucy." And Polly +suddenly sprang up, flinging her arms around the Doctor's neck, +and resting her cheek against his with almost a sob. "Oh, I wish +mamma knew!" she whispered. "Do you s'pose she does?" + +"We will surely hope so," he answered. "It seems to me that +Haven is nearer than some people believe." + +"It would make her so happy," Polly went on. "I do wish you +could have known mamma. She was such a dear!" + +"I am glad to have so close a friendship with her little +daughter," smiled the Doctor. + +Light raps at the door made Polly slip to her feet, and sent Dr. +Dudley across the room. Polly hurriedly brushed away the only +remaining tear, and looked up to greet Miss Hortensia Price. + +The nurse had come to talk with Dr. Dudley about a patient, and +Polly went over to the couch, and searched among the parcels for a +certain package. Her fingers trembled with joyous excitement. +The world had suddenly turned rose color. Every sorrow had flown +away. Even the grief which had been ever present with her for +nearly three years was for the moment swallowed up in the joy of +believing that mamma knew! She came upon the package she sought, +examined it carefully to make sure that it was the right one, and +then went, a little shyly, to Miss Price. She waited for Dr. +Dudley stopped talking. + +The lady received the holiday-attired parcel with a surprised +look. + +"Mrs. Jocelyn bought some presents," explained Polly, "for me to +give to my friends, a I chose Robert Browning's 'Poems' for you. +I hope you'll like it." + +"Like it! Why, you dear child!" Miss Price dropped the book in +her lap, and caught Polly's hands in hers. "How did you ever +guess that Browning is my favorite poet?" + +"You said so, one day, when we were playing Authors, up in the +ward." + +"And you remembered!" She began untying the ribbon. "I was +thinking only yesterday that I must have a copy." + +The volume was richly bound, and beautiful with illustrations. +Miss Price fingered it with the caressing tough of a booklover. +If her thanks were a bit conventional, Polly knew that back of +them lay real gratitude and appreciation. + +The little girl went back to her parcels with an added gladness. +She began piling them on her arm. + +"Don't carry too many," warned Dr. Dudley. "I'll take them up +for you." + +"I will bring some along when I come." Promised Miss Price. + +So Polly put back all but two dolls and a few small packages, and +started upstairs humming softly a gay little air. + +Presently the song was hushed by happy thoughts. To think of +living in a dear little cottage, all alone with Miss Lucy and Dr. +Dudley! To sit down at the table, three times a day, with them +both! And at bedtime! There was never room for jealousy in +Polly's heart; but sometimes when Miss Lucy cuddled the little +ones in her arms, her mother-hungry should felt starved out of its +rightful food. And now!--she could almost feel the dear arms +around her! She stopped halfway up the second flight, and bent +her head reverently. + +"O Lord Jesus, I think thee!" she whispered. "Please let mamma +know how beautiful it is going to be! For Thy Name's sake. +Amen." + +The door of the ward was open; but so light were her footfalls +that she stood on the threshold a moment before being noticed. +Then came a shout and a rush and such frantic huggings that Polly +and her parcels seemed in danger of coming to sorrow. + +"That is for Stella," Polly finally managed to say, freeing a +hand long enough to pass the box over one or two heads to the +little girl beyond. + +This turned the attention in Stella Pope's direction, and Polly +hastened down the room to a cot where a little girl lay, her big +blue eyes staring out in line with her pillow, taking no note of +the commotion going on behind her. + +"Trotty, see what I've brought you!" was Polly's cheery +greeting. + +The little four-year-old turned slightly, with a wavering smile. +She was a strange wisp of a girl, and Polly was not in the least +disappointed when she made no answer, only watched the fingers +that were untying the bright ribbon. + +"Now--what do you s'pose?" smiled Polly, staying the cover a +moment to make the gift of more effect. + +There was look of expectancy on the midget's face. A word of joy +broke from her lips. + +Polly laid the beautiful doll in her arms, smiling to see the +rapture in the big blue eyes. + +Then a wee shadow crept over. "Mine? All mine?" questioned the +tiny one. + +"Yes, all yours," was the sure answer. "Is n't it a darling?" + +Trotty did not speak, but hugged the new baby to her heart in a +way that left no doubt. Polly wished that Mrs. Jocelyn were there +to see. + +After the other smaller packages had been left with the several +patients for whom they were marked, Polly said, in a voice that +carried to all the cots:-- + +"This is n't all. There is something for everybody; but I could +n't bring so many. Dr. Dudley and miss Price are coming up with +the rest." + +They started a babel of joyous questioning; but Polly was +responsive and patient, and altogether so satisfactory, that the +little sick people settled back on their pillows in supreme +content, to await the coming of their presents. + +The others had heard, too, and pressed about Polly with eager +talk. + +"I chose a doll for every girl that has n't any," she told them +gaily, "and I got just as pretty ones as there were in the +store." + +"Say, what colored hair has mine?" questioned Mabel. + +"Light, like Stella's, I think." + +"Oh, goody!" squealed the little maid. "And is it curly?" + +Polly nodded. + +"Wha' d' yer buy for Leonora?" queried a curious one. + +Polly threw a bright smile across to her friend, while she +answered merrily:-- + +"You wait! It's something pretty." + +"I guess Polly's had an awful good time," observed thoughtful +Mary Pender; "she's so full of fun." + +Miss Lucy, entering the ward at the moment, overheard the remark, +as her eyes met Polly's. + +The little girl waived a reply, and ran over to greet the nurse. + +"Is Mary right?" Miss Lucy smiled. + +Polly hesitated, growing grave. Then her eyes danced +mischievously. "Just about right," she answered softly. "It was +'good' and 'awful' both. But I had a lovely time with Dr. Dudley +after I came home--lovely!" + +Miss Lucy sent a quick searching glance into the happy eyes, and +they fell before it. Polly feared she had told too much. But no, +she reasoned, because the secret was also Miss Lucy's. She looked +up again half shyly. The nurse's cheeks were very pink, and her +lips were smiling. + +"Precious child!" she murmured; and then she kissed her, a bit +of favoritism which she seldom allowed herself. But there was now +an excuse. Polly had been away. + +Shortly afterwards Miss Hortensia Price and the Doctor appeared, +laden with happiness for the ward. The dignified nurse seemed in +a holiday mood, to match her ribboned armful, and she remained to +see the delight of the children, as they unwrapped their presents. + +Leonora lingered over the untying of her box, as if reluctant to +risk the pretty flowered bit of pasteboard for what lay within. +Polly went across to where she sat. + +"I'm waiting to know how you like it," she smiled. + +Leonora finally lifted the cover, and her long-drawn, "O-h!" of +surprise and joy was enough for the donor. + +"It is just like mine," Polly explained, "only mine is +forget-me-nots on pale blue." + +"That must be lovely," said Leonora; "but I like this best for +me--it don't seem as if it could be for me!" + +She carefully raised an end of the broad white sash ribbon, and +sighed rapturously over the beautiful pink rosebuds scattered +along its length. + +"That is exquisite," agreed Miss Price, coming to her side. +"Pink is exactly the color for you. Polly has shown excellent +taste in its selection." + +"Oh, Polly always knows just what's right!" praised Leonora. + +Miss Price did not reply, only smiled across to Polly in the +friendliest way. + +"Is n't High Price lovely this afternoon!" whispered the lame +girl, as the tall nurse turned to admire a doll which was help up +for her inspection. + +Polly nodded happily. Everything was "lovely" now. What a +glad, beautiful world it was! + +"My dear!" A pair of soft arms clasped her from behind, and +Polly found herself looking up into Miss Lucy's radiant face. "I +believe you are a little witch!" she laughed "You have given me +just such a bag as I have coveted for a good many years, but which +I never expected to won." + +"I'm so glad!" responded Poly. "But Mrs. Jocelyn chose it-- +the kind, I mean." + +She might have added that she should never have dared select on at +that price; but she only smiled joyously. + +"Then I will thank you and Mrs. Jocelyn both," smiled Miss Lucy, +moving away with the other nurse. + +"Was n't it nice of her to buy all these things for you to give +us!" said Leonora happily. + +Polly's response was sober. She could not quite forget how sorry +the dear little lady would be when she heard what had been +decided. But her seriousness soon gave place to laughter. The +ward was in too merry a mood to allow aught but mirth within its +walls. + + + +Chapter XVII + +The Wedding + + +The next morning David called for Polly on his way to school, and +the two went off together, the children waving good-byes from the +windows. They returned, at noon, in love with their teachers, in +love with the scholars, in love with their new books and all +pertaining to the school. Such funny, interesting things had +happened, and Polly told about them all dinner time. + +Leonora watched her two friends go back in the afternoon, feeling +a little sad. If only she could go, too! But she was growing +well and strong; Dr. Dudley had assured her that she would soon be +able to run about like other girls. The sadness, after all, ended +in a long breath of joy. + +The weeks before the secret came out where very happy weeks for +Polly. Only a ew days after her visit to Mrs. Jocelyn came a +package, a large, flat, nearly square package. It arrived while +she was at school, and she found the children eyeing it curiously +as it lay on Miss Lucy's desk. + +"It's for you," announced Stella, "and she said there must n't +anybody touch it. She would n't open it herself." + +Polly looked at the white parcel, and wondered, too. She had been +expecting photographs; but this was too big for those, she +decided. Hastily she untied the string. Miss Lucy came in just +as she turned back the wrapper. + +"O-h!" + +"Why, Polly May, you've gone and had your picture taken!" + +"My! Ain't it splendid?" + +"Whew! Bet that cost somethin'!" + +Miss Lucy caught a glimpse of the photograph, which brought her +quickly across the room. + +"Polly dear, what a surprise this is!" + +"I don't think it looks much like me," murmured the little girl, +staring wonderingly and the beautiful picture. + +It was of large size, exquisitely finished in carbon, and mounted +in a handsome folder. + +"Why, it looks exactly like her! Don't it, Miss Lucy?" queried +Mabel. + +"I think I never saw a better likeness," smiled the nurse. + +"There!" exulted Mabel. "Say, what made you think it did n't?" + +But Polly only laughed a little uncertainly. "Never mind, if you +like it!" she told them. + +"Oh, here's another kind!" piped Stella, whose curious fingers +had discovered a photograph showing Polly in a different pose. + +This was full-length; the other was only head and shoulders. + +"There's one more, I think," said Polly, "where I had some +flowers in my hand." + +A hunt soon revealed it,--"the very sweetest of all!" Leonora +declared. + +The girls hung over it rapturously. + +"Will you give me one?" begged Mabel. + +"And me"--"And me?"--"And me?" chorused the others. + +"Polly cannot tell right off just what she will be able to do," +interposed Miss Lucy. "Dr. Dudley has n't seen them yet. Suppose +you run down and show them to him, Polly." + +Down the stairs skipped Polly, glad to get away from the too eager +children. + +The Doctor received them delightedly. Polly watched him with +thoughtful eyes. + +"Do you think they look like me?" she ventured at last. + +"Very much," he answered, smiling at the anxious pucker between +Polly's eyebrows. "What is the trouble?" + +The pink in her cheeks deepened to crimson. "I am not--so +pretty as that," she faltered. "You know I'm not. And I hate to +give away such pictures. It seems as if folks would think I +wanted to make out I looked better than I really do." + +Dr. Dudley's eyes were bent to the photograph in hand. He thought +hard and fast. Should he tell her the truth,--that the +beautiful black-and-white print, with all its exquisite softness, +scarcely did justice to the delicate mobile face? + +"I wanted you and Miss Lucy to have one," she went on, "and +Colonel Gresham, and David, and High Price, and Leonora, and +Cornelius--for he was so good to get my locket back. Then +the rest of them--there are a dozen--I thought I'd give to +anybody that wanted one; but now--" she halted appealingly. + +"Well, if I were you, Thistledown," and the Doctor threw his arm +in a comradely way across the slim shoulders, "I should go +straight along and give my pictures to those for whom I had +intended them, with no thought about any lack of resemblance. You +sat for the photographs, and you are not to blame for any possible +mistake the camera may have made; so don't let it bother you." + +She gave a little gleeful chuckle. "It is the camera's fault, is +n't it? I never thought of that. Well, if you think it's all +right to give them away, it must be; but it did n't seem quite-- +hones, you know." She looked up still a bit anxious. + +The Doctor smoothed away the tiny wrinkle on her forehead, and +smiled down into the clear brown eyes. + +"It is perfectly right, Polly; in fact, it would be wrong to +spoil so much pleasure for such a little reason. The pictures are +far more lifelike than most people's are, and nobody will stop to +compare them with the original, feature by feature." + +"No, I guess they won't," she laughed. "You pick out the one you +want to keep, and next I'll let Miss Lucy choose." + +Dr. Dudley watched her, as she danced away happily up the stairs. +The he studied the photograph before him, doing exactly what he +had assured her that no one would think of doing; but his final +judgment, like his first intuition, was not in favor of the print. + +The simplest of church weddings had been planned by the two most +closely concerned, for neither had other home than the hospital; +but Mrs. Jocelyn overthrew plans and arguments together. + +"What is my big house good for," she demanded, "if it cannot be +useful at a time like this? You shall come and make it merry once +more in its old life!" + +She ended by carrying off Miss Lucy for a whole week before the +appointed day, and the hospital had to hustle another nurse into +the ward which was both sorrowful and glad. + +That was a week of happy upsetting for the stately old mansion. +Carpenters, electricians, florists, and tradespeople of various +classes, all joined in the joyous whirl. Dr. Dudley and Polly +whizzed back and forth in the automobile, and the dignified grays +were kept trotting to and from the house at all hours of the day +and evening. + +It had been early arranged for Polly and Leonora to remain with +Mrs. Jocelyn for the two weeks that the Doctor and his wife were +to be away on their wedding journey, and the little lame girl, who +now had only the tiniest limp, was in alternate rapture and +dismay. + +"To think" she would exclaim, squeezing Polly ecstatically, "of +_me_ being in that splendid house, with you and that beautiful +Mrs. Jocelyn for fourteen whole days! But, oh, mercy!" she would +cry, "I'm dreadfully afraid she'll not want me so long! I shall +be sure to say or do something wrong! I'm not used to grand folks +like her;" and joy would end with a sigh. + +Thin it was Polly's part to reassure her with laughing words, +until the delight would come back to crowd out all fears. + +One large room in the house on Edgewood Avenue had been reserved +for the wedding presents, and, although Miss Lucy had jestingly +remarked that a little hall chamber was more than would be needed, +the apartment was packed with love tokens long in advance of the +day. Both the nurse and the physician had won many friends in +their years of hospital service, and now all seemed anxious to +show honor to these two who had helped to add length and comfort +to their lives. + +One morning, just before starting for Mrs. Jocelyn's, Dr. Dudley +read this note to Polly:-- + + My Dear Doctor,-- + + I have been wondering, ever since I heard + Your good news, how Polly was going to ride, + Inasmuch as two fill your runabout. I have + Too much consideration for the lady who will + Sit by your side to wish her always to bear + The burden of Polly's weight; so I have ordered + for you a car that will seat five without + crowding. There is a place ready for it in my + carriage house. That won't be far for you to + come, and it will be handier for me whenever + Lone Star goes lame. + + Your sincere friend, + + GRESHAM. + + Lucky for me I happened to think of this, + For it would get on my nerves to see Polly + Hanging on behind every time you and Mrs. + Dudley went to ride. + D. G. + +"What a funny man!": laughed Polly. "You'd think Lone Star went +lame about once a week! But is n't that a lovelicious present-- +a big auto!--my!" + +"It is too much." Dr. Dudley shook his head gravely. + +"Why, he loves to do it for you," argued Polly. "Besides, it is +not just for you," she chuckled; "it is so he won't have to see +me sitting is Miss Lucy's lap or 'hanging on behind'! Would n't +that look funny?" + +The Doctor laughed, and put the note in his pocket. + +At Mrs. Jocelyn's, Miss Lucy met them at the entrance. + +"I'm so glad you've come," she cried. "I was wishing you would, +to see what Colonel Gresham has sent me." + +"Why--" began Polly, and then stopped, blushing at having +almost told about the new motor car. That was not hers to speak +of first. + +Dr. Dudley sent a swift glance of appreciation in her direction, +and followed Miss Lucy's leading. + +"That came for you, Polly, at the same time," she said, handing +the girl a small square package. "A man just brought them." + +"For me?" Polly's eyes opened wide. "I'm not going to be +married!" + +They laughed, while the young lady displayed her gift, a necklace +of pearls. + +"Oh, is n't that lovely!" exclaimed Polly. + +"How sweet you will look I nit! Do put it on!" + +But Miss Lucy declared that pearls and gingham dresses were not +companionable, and the necklace was returned to its satin case. + +"Why don't you undo your package?" inquired Mrs. Jocelyn. + +"Oh, I forgot!" cried Polly, in sudden compunction. "Those +beautiful pearls put everything out of my head." + +She soon had the wrappings off, disclosing a small leather case. + +"What can it be?" she breathed. "Oh, you darling!" gazing +delightedly at an exquisite little watch. She caressed it with +excited fingers. "Why, there's something engraved in here!" as +the case flew open, and turning to the light, she read aloud:-- + + To Polly of the Hospital Staff, in remembrance + Of a stormy midnight and a sunshiny morning, from + her devoted lover, + DAVID GRESHAM. + +"And here's something more," she went on, scowling in a puzzled +way over the quotation. "It says, 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' +I don't see what that's for, do you?" + +The others smiled comprehendingly. + +"Why, dearest," explained Mrs. Jocelyn, "you know you brought +the Colonel and his niece together." + +"Oh, no, I did n't do it!" protested Polly. + +"I wonder who did," the little lady laughed. + +Miss Lucy was reading the Colonel's note, which Dr. Dudley had +given her. She ended it with a silent chuckle, and the Doctor +passed it over to Mrs. Jocelyn. + +"Just like David!" the little lady declared. "He enjoys a bit of +quiet fun as well as any man I ever knew." + +Polly had gone back to her present, hanging over it in delight. + +"It is just the right kind of watch for a little girl like you," +admired the Doctor; "neither too large nor too ornamental." + +"It is beautiful!" sighed Polly rapturously. "Is n't Colonel +Gresham nice to give it to me?" + +The Doctor smiled an emphatic "Yes," which rejoiced Polly's +heart. She had been afraid he would shake his head, as he had +shaken it over the touring-car. In that case, she reasoned +conscientiously, she should have felt as if she ought to give back +her watch. + +It was a six-o'clock wedding. The bridal procession formed at the +foot of the stairs in the spacious hallway, marching its length, +and then proceeding through the east drawing-room to the library, +where the ceremony took place under a canopy of roses. A troop of +children attended the ride, children to whom, as nurse of the +convalescent ward, she had at some time ministered. The girls, +two and two, gowned in silken chiffon of harmonious colors, had +each a basket heaped with blossoms. Polly and Leonora came last +of all, both in delicate pink, from the ribbons that bound their +hair to the tops of their kid slippers, Leonora's black braids in +happy contrast with Polly's fair curls. The boys, clad as pages, +ranged, at regular intervals, on either side of the long line, +carried light arches of vines and flowers, making a fragrant arbor +for the others to walk under. + +The brief service over, the flower girls strewed roses in the path +of the bridal pair all the way to the great west drawing-room. + +It was like a queen's pageant in a vision of fairyland. The +myriad lights, the gaily dressed children, the lavish profusion of +flowers, the soft music floating from a bank of ferns,--all +united to make the scene unusually dreamlike and beautiful. + +As the bride stood to receive her guests, in her simple white silk +gown, the necklace of pearly her only ornament, Polly gazed into +her sweet, thoughtful face, and longed to throw her arms around +her neck and give her a loving hug. But she had to be content +with only one little decorous kiss, and she consoled herself with +the words that had been singing in her heart all the day, "She is +going to be my mother! She is going to be my mother!" + +There were many guests, and it was long before the bride and groom +were free from hand-shaking. Polly only caught glimpses now and +then of the two she loved best. She was with a group of merry +children, when she heard her name softly called. Turning, she saw +Dr. Dudley in the doorway. She ran to him, and he led her into +the library, where his bride was talking with Mr. Brewster, the +lawyer. + +Mrs. Dudley drew her down beside her on the divan, and Mr. +Brewster soon took leave of them. The Doctor seated himself on her +right. + +"This document," he smiled, tapping lightly the paper in his +hand, "makes you legally our own daughter. We have just signed +it, for we wanted everything settled before going away." + +With a quick, graceful gesture, Polly wound an arm around each +neck. + +"My dear new father and mother," she whispered solemnly, as if +it were a prayer, "I will be just as good, always, as I know how +to be, so you won't ever be sorry you made me your own little +girl!" + + + +***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK POLLY OF THE HOSPITAL STAFF*** + + +******* This file should be named 15971.txt or 15971.zip ******* + + +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: +https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/5/9/7/15971 + + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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