our approval, that we shall
divide your time between our home and the Presbys' place. First, we will
do Chicago, after which we will go to Cousin Jane and Cousin Richard
Presby. They have a grand old home and hundreds of acres of grounds
surrounding it."

"Are they so very rich?" questioned Mollie.

"On the contrary, they are extremely poor," answered Aunt Sallie,
whereat Mollie puckered her brow in perplexity. "Their property is
heavily mortgaged. They are in a fair way to lose it unless----"

"Unless what, Aunt Sallie?" asked Bab gently.

"Unless perhaps they may in the meantime find the buried treasure."

The effect of this announcement on Mollie, Barbara and Grace made Miss
Sallie smile.

"Buried treasure? Buried treasure! Oh, oh, oh!" they cried in chorus.

"Don't get excited, dears. There is no chance for the 'Automobile
Girls,'" interjected Ruth. "I've stirred myself up so many times over
that old treasure that I have lost ever and ever so many nights' sleep.
Take my advice and forget all about it," she admonished.

"Oh, please tell us about it," urged Mollie.

"A buried treasure? How perfectly delightful!" sparkled Barbara.

"I haven't time to tell you now. It is a long story. This treasure was
buried many years ago by one of the Presbys' ancestors. They will tell
you all about it when you go out there, and I am sure Cousin Richard can
make the story much more interesting than I could."

This had to suffice for the present, though the girls were burning to
hear the story. Anything that savored of adventure appealed to these
healthy, outdoor girls, and what could be more adventurous than hunting
for a treasure that had been buried for years and years?

The girls' trunks had been brought up, and while they were dressing for
the evening, Bab took advantage of the occasion to consult with Ruth
about her gown.

Ruth ran forward, flinging her arms about Barbara's neck the instant Bab
came into her room.

"Dear, dear old Bab," she breathed, running tender fingers over the
shining brown hair of her companion. "You can't know how I have wanted
you. It seems years since last I saw you. Answer me truly, dear. How do
you think father is looking?"

Barbara's face sobered instantly. Ruth noted the quick change of
expression.

"You needn't tell me. I see by your expression what you think," added
Ruth quickly, brushing a stray wisp of hair from her face.

"That was what I wished to ask you about, dear," sai