"
"Isn't it a shame he can't be nice?" came from Jessie. "If he keeps on
like this, he'll not have a friend in the world."
"Well, he hasn't many friends now," answered Dave. "At Oak Hall the
majority of the fellows turned him down just as they turned down Link
Merwell."
"Oh, that Link Merwell!" sighed Laura. "I trust I never see or hear of
him again!"
Bright and early the next day the boys arose and packed the last of
their baggage. The girls were up, too, and joined the lads at the
breakfast table. Dave's father was there, and also Uncle Dunston, as
well as Mr. and Mrs. Wadsworth.
"Well, I certainly hope you all have a grand time," said the rich
manufacturer.
"And I hope the outing does Jessie good," said his wife. Jessie was not
very strong and the doctor had said that a trip to the Far West might do
much towards building up her constitution.
"You must write often," said Mr. Porter to his daughter. "And make Dave
write, too."
"I'll not forget," said the daughter, and Dave nodded.
It was rather a sober meal, although every one tried to be cheerful. The
big touring-car, Mr. Wadsworth's latest purchase, was at the door, and
the baggage had gone on ahead. Soon it was time to go.
"Good-by, everybody!" cried Dave, and shook hands with his father and
Mrs.
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