possibly not at all after tonight. So you might just as well be
mothering the McKittricks as left alone in this end of the town, so far
as I can see."

"I knew you would say yes," sighed Tabitha contentedly. "You shall see
what model housekeepers your daughters can be. We'll make you proud of
us."

"I have no doubt of it," he answered heartily. "But if you begin your
arduous duties to-morrow, it is time you were in bed this minute. Fly
away now!"

So they ran laughingly away to their room, both secretly glad of the
chance to seek their pillows an hour earlier, for that day at the
McKittrick cottage had been a busy one, and though neither would
acknowledge it to the other, feet, arms and backs ached sadly. But the
next morning, after a refreshing night's sleep, the duet was ready and
eager for the novel role they were about to play; and just as soon as
their own simple tasks were done, the necessary clothes packed and the
little cottage made secure for its two weeks of solitude, they tramped
merrily up the steep path to the Eagles' Nest, and entered upon their
summer vacation as housekeepers for a family of six, as Susie expressed
it.

Everything was topsy-turvy in the excitement of getting the injured
father, and weary, distracted mother started on their brief journey;
but finally they were off, and a row of sober-faced children stood on
the bluff overlooking the flats below, watching the train puff its way
slowly out of sight behind the mountains.

With the last glimpse of the departing cars, the sense of
responsibility in her new charge descended upon the shoulders of the
volunteer housekeeper, and Tabitha was for a brief moment appalled at
the task which she had so rashly undertaken.

"Six children to look after for two whole weeks!" she gasped in dismay.
Then her courage returned with a rush. "Why, Tabitha Catt, you coward!
I am ashamed of you! If you can't take care of six children for two
short weeks, particularly with Gloriana to help, you are not good for
much!" Resolutely she turned toward the house, saying briskly, to hide
her own wavering spirits, "Well, folkses, let's have chocolate pie for
supper!"

"Oh, goody!" cried Inez, whirling about to follow her leader; and at
mention of these words, the faces of the whole group brightened
wonderfully.

"Can't we have some cake, too? Mamma said we might if you knew how to
make it."

"Knew how to make it?" boasted Tabitha scornfully. "Well, I