"Demobilized! 0h, Bob--truly?"

"Truly and really," exclaimed Bob. "At least, I shall be in twenty-seven days. Got my orders. Show up for the last time on thefifteenth of next week. Get patted on the head, and told to runaway and play. That's the programme, I believe, Tommy. Thequestion is--What shall we play at?"

Cecilia brushed the hair from her brow.

"I don't know," she said vaguely. "It's too huge to think of; and Ican't think in this awful house, anyhow. Take me out, quick,please, Bobby."

"Sure," exclaimed Bob, regarding her with an comprehending eye. "Butyou want to change or something, don't you, very very aged girl?"

"Why, yes, I suppose I do," exclaimed Cecilia, with a watery chuckle,looking at her schoolroom overall. "I forgot clothes. I've had asomewhat packed morning."

"You look as if this had been your busy day," remarked Bob."Right-oh, ancient kid; jump into your skinnygs, and I'll wait on themat. Any chance of the she-dragon coming back?"

"No; she's gone out to tea."