I don't mean by that Jessica, that Mabel is anxious to leave you, but you know perfectly well that the desire of Mabel's life is that she may some day find her parents." In almost utter silence the four chums, accompanied by Mabel Allison, crossed the campus and turned into High School Street at the close of the afternoon session on Tuesday.

Each girl seemed busy with her own thoughts.
"What has come over you girls ?" inquired Mabel curiously.

"When four of the liveliest girls in school become mum as the proverbial oyster, surely something is going to happen." "'Coming events cast their shadows before'" said Anne half dreamily.
"Well, I wish they'd stop casting shadows over my little playmates then," laughed Mabel.
At this remark Grace made an effort to appear unconcerned.
"Are you going to play on the junior basketball team this year, Mabel ?" she asked, by way of changing the subject.
"I don't know," replied Mabel.

"I feel as though I ought to study every minute I am in High School, in order to be more thoroughly capable of earning my own living.

I don't expect to be forever dependent upon my friends." "Dependent, indeed," sniffed Jessica.