ansy troop felt a
tightening sensation at their throats when the great throng of girls
sang the "Star Spangled Banner." The meeting brought to them an
impression that they would never forget, and prepared them in one way to
realize what it would mean to be part of a great organized camp.

They left the hall as soon as the address was over, in order that they
might make an early train home; for, instead of returning to Miss
Allen's school, each girl was to go to her own home, and Miss Phillips
was anxious that they all reach their destinations before dark.

The rally had been the most fitting conclusion that Miss Phillips could
have conceived. She realized this when she saw how deeply it had
impressed the girls.

"A glorious end of a glorious trip!" said Ethel enthusiastically, as
they got into the train.

And the shining eyes of the others confirmed their approval of her
opinion.

CHAPTER XXI

LETTERS

Marjorie could hardly wait until she reached home, so excited was she
about writing to the unknown Girl Scout. It would be a difficult matter,
too, for she wanted to write a general letter, and yet one which, if
Jennie Perkins should by any chance turn out to be Frieda Hammer, would
be appropriate.

The family were all so glad to see her and so anxious to hear about the
trip, that she at once gave up the idea of writing that night. Of
course, her mother would expect her to go to church the following day;
but after Sunday School she would undoubtedly be free.

But again her hopes were frustrated. Ruth sought her immediately after
class and walked home with her.

"Let's go for a walk, Marj," she said. "Harold's coming over for me at
your house, and I thought maybe Jack would go, too."

Marjorie frowned slightly; she did not particularly enjoy Harold
Mason's society, and she did so long to write that letter. But she did
not care to disclose any of her plans to Ruth; she had no desire to
encounter her ridicule.

"All right; if we don't stay out late. I asked mother to have an early
supper, for I want to write letters to-night!"

"John Hadley?" teased Ruth. "By the way, Harold knows him. He goes to
Princeton, too, now."

"He does! You never told me----"

"I never thought you were particularly interested in Harold Mason,
Marj!"

"Only as your friend, Ruth," laughed Marjorie.

The walk, just as Marjorie anticipated, was not particularly interesting
to her. Ruth monopolized the conversation, succee