The buying of railroad
tickets and berths in the Pullmans was left entirely to Dunston Porter.
A farewell gathering had been arranged for the young people by Mrs.
Wadsworth, to take place on the afternoon previous to their departure
for the West. About a dozen boys and girls from Crumville and vicinity
were invited. The party was held on the lawn of the Wadsworth estate,
which was trimmed for the occasion with banners, flags, and lanterns. A
small orchestra, located in the summerhouse, furnished the music.
Of course Dave and his chums donned their best for this occasion, and
Laura and Jessie appeared in white dresses that were as pretty as they
could be. Jessie's wavy hair was tied up in new ribbons, and as Dave
looked at her he thought she looked as sweet as might a fairy from
fairyland. He could not help smiling at her, and when she came and
pinned on his coat a buttonhole bouquet he thought he was the happiest
boy in the whole world.
"Oh, but won't we have the grand times when we get out West!" he said to
her.
"I hope so, Dave," she answered. "But----"
"But what, Jessie?" he questioned, as he saw her hesitate.
"I--I can't get that Link Merwell out of my head. I am so sorry his
father's ranch is next to that we are going to visit.
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