Dr.Blythe had taken to looking grave and saying little over the daily paper.

Jem and Walter were keenly interested in the news it brought.

Jem sought Walter out in excitement that evening.
"Oh, boy, Germany has declared war on France.

This means that England will fight too, probably--and if she does--well, the Piper of your old fancy will have come at last." "It wasn't a fancy," said Walter slowly.

"It was a presentiment--a vision--Jem, I really saw him for a moment that evening long ago.
Suppose England does fight ?" "Why, we'll all have to turn in and help her," cried Jem gaily.