he picture of health, took half an hour to detail
all her aches and pains, and sadly put down fifty cents because she
wouldn't be there that time next year to do it . . . no, she would be in
her grave.

Their worst reception, however, was at Simon Fletcher's. When they
drove into the yard they saw two faces peering at them through the porch
window. But although they rapped and waited patiently and persistently
nobody came to the door. Two decidedly ruffled and indignant girls drove
away from Simon Fletcher's. Even Anne admitted that she was beginning
to feel discouraged. But the tide turned after that. Several Sloane
homesteads came next, where they got liberal subscriptions, and from
that to the end they fared well, with only an occasional snub. Their
last place of call was at Robert Dickson's by the pond bridge. They
stayed to tea here, although they were nearly home, rather than risk
offending Mrs. Dickson, who had the reputation of being a very "touchy"
woman.

While they were there old Mrs. James White called in.

"I've just been down to Lorenzo's," she announced. "He's the proudest
man in Avonlea this minute. What do you think? There's a brand new boy
there . . . and after seven girls that's quite an event, I can tell you."
Anne pricked up her ears, and when they drove away she said.

"I'm going straight to Lorenzo White's."

"But he lives on the White Sands road and it's quite a distance out of
our way," protested Diana. "Gilbert and Fred will canvass him."

"They are not going around until next Saturday and it will be too late
by then," said Anne firmly. "The novelty will be worn off. Lorenzo
White is dreadfully mean but he will subscribe to ANYTHING just now. We
mustn't let such a golden opportunity slip, Diana." The result justified
Anne's foresight. Mr. White met them in the yard, beaming like the
sun upon an Easter day. When Anne asked for a subscription he agreed
enthusiastically.

"Certain, certain. Just put me down for a dollar more than the highest
subscription you've got."

"That will be five dollars . . . Mr. Daniel Blair put down four," said
Anne, half afraid. But Lorenzo did not flinch.

"Five it is . . . and here's the money on the spot. Now, I want you
to come into the house. There's something in there worth seeing . . .
something very few people have seen as yet. Just come in and pass YOUR
opinion."

"What will we say if the baby isn't pretty?" whispered Diana in
trepidation as they f