she was going astray. It amused Polly to encourage this
misconception, and to take offence on every opportunity. As she went
down into the kitchen she fingered a gold watch-chain that hung from
her blouse to a little pocket at her waist. Mrs. Bubb would spy it
at once, and in course of the quarrel about this morning's hot water
would be sure to allude to it.

It turned out one of the finest frays Polly had ever enjoyed, and
was still rich in possibilities when, at something past eleven, the
kitchen door suddenly opened and there entered Mr. Gammon.





CHAPTER II

A MISSING UNCLE




He glanced at Mrs. Bubb, at the disorderly remnants of breakfast on
the long deal table, then at Polly, whose face was crimson with the
joy of combat.

"Don't let me interrupt you, ladies. Blaze away! if I may so express
myself. It does a man good to see such energy on a warm morning."

"I've said all I'm a-goin' to say," exclaimed Mrs. Bubb, as she