attractive dining-hall, and an equally pleasant-looking boarders'
sitting-room, the three girls went upstairs to a dormitory marked 2.
They found Ingred already at work on her task of unpacking, putting
clothes away in drawers, and spreading the shelf that served as a
dressing-table with an assortment of photos, books, and toilet
requisites. She looked rather in the dumps, but it was impossible for
anybody to remain gloomy when in the presence of such lively spirits as
Nora and Verity, and by the time the gong sounded for tea she had
cheered up, and was sitting on her bed discussing school news.

[Illustration: "LET'S CALL OURSELVES THE FOURSOME LEAGUE."]

"Look here!" said Verity. "If we want to have a jolly term we four must
stick together. Let's make a compact that, both in school and in the
hostel, we'll support each other through thick and thin. We'll be a sort
of society of Freemasons. I haven't made up any secrets yet, but whoever
betrays them will be outlawed! Let's call ourselves 'The Foursome
League.' Now then, put your right hands all together on mine, and say
after me: 'I hereby promise and vow on my honor as a gentlewoman that
I'll stand by my chums in No. 2 Dormitory at any cost.' That's a good
beginning. When we've time, we'll draw up the rules. Subscriptions? Oh,
bother! You can each give sixpence if you like, and we'll spend the
money on a chocolate feast. Remember, Fil, not a word to anybody! It's
to be kept absolutely quiet. There's the gong. If the tea's up to the
standard of the rest of the hostel, I shan't object. Glad we're not
rationed now, for I'm as hungry as a hunter."