CHAPTER XIV.
THE COUNTRY SCHOOL Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
-- _Bible._ Polly's welcome to me was most cordial.

She was bright as a cricket and full of chat about her visit.

With her usual care she examined my cage closely to see that everything was in order and petted and praised me for a little while to my full content, then ran to Miss Kathy to tell her of the new story book which had been presented to her while away.
"And I am going to read you the stories some day," she added.
Her young playmates flocked in to see her and as I listened to their glad voices my heart yearned more than ever for my comrades of the woods, for a thought of spring was in the air.
As the days went by there were indeed signs all around that spring was on the way.

The wind no longer bellowed hoarsely in the treetops, but had a mellow, musical sound and the raindrops that struck the window pane trickled softly as if glad to come out of the clouds.
Just after school one bright afternoon Polly came to the door on the side porch and called in to Miss Katharine: "I'll be playing out in the yard awhile.

Louise and Nancy have come to stay till half-past five o'clock, so if mother needs me you'll know where to find me." "All right" said Miss Kathy.