It was so absurd for a child to be lonesome when there were three in the bed! But Dotty was too low-spirited even to smile.

Mrs.Rosenberg came up and boxed Rosina's ears; and after that the trundle-bed subsided.
At last, when Dotty supposed it must be midnight, though it was only nine o'clock, there came a loud knocking at the side door.

She hid her face under the coverlet, feeling sure it was either a wild Indian or a highway robber.
"Don't be afraid," said Mandoline, rousing herself.

"It is somebody after beer, and mother has locked up the store." No, it was Mr.Parlin's voice which spoke.

Dotty's swollen heart gave a great bound, and then sank heavier than ever.
"My little daughter Alice has run away." That was what he said.