You had better send for your books . You wo n't have to pay for the sled or the fence . Jack says he will see to it . We have been having a spread over here . First-rate things . I would n't mind breaking a leg , if I had such good grub and no chores to do . No more now , from yours , with esteem , `` Joseph P. Flint '' Joe thought that an elegant epistle , having copied portions of it from the `` Letter Writer , '' and proudly read it off to the boys , who assured him that Jill would be much impressed . `` Now , Jack , hurry up and let us send the lot off , for we must go , '' said Gus , as Frank put the letters in the basket , and the clatter of tea-things was heard below . `` I 'm not going to show mine . It 's private and you must n't look , '' answered Jack , patting down an envelope with such care that no one had a chance to peep . But Joe had seen the little note copied , and while the others were at the window working the telegraph he caught up the original , carelessly thrust by Jack under the pillow , and read it aloud before any one knew what he was about . `` My Dear , -- I wish I could send you some of my good times . As I ca n't , I send you much love , and I hope you will try and be patient as I am going to , for it was our fault , and we must not make a fuss now . Ai n't mothers sweet ? Mine is coming over to-morrow to see you and tell me how you are . This round thing is a kiss for good-night . `` Your Jack '' `` Is n't that spoony ? You 'd better hide your face , I think . He 's getting to be a regular mollycoddle , is n't he ? '' jeered Joe , as the boys laughed , and then grew sober , seeing Jack 's head buried in the bedclothes , after sending a pillow at his tormentor .
It nearly hit Mrs. Minot , coming in with her XXXXX 's tea on a tray , and at sight of her the guests hurriedly took leave , Joe nearly tumbling downstairs to escape from Frank , who would have followed , if his mother had not said quickly , `` Stay , and tell me what is the matter . ''
basket books envelope grub letters mine mothers patient times to-morrow