here is any left."

Ernest was creepy with excitement between joy at going and his haunting
fear that he might disgrace the family by failing to pass the
examinations.

"Buck up, old chap," Frank admonished, "you've got facts enough in your
head if you can only get them out at the right time. My advice is to
forget all about exams and enjoy your trip. One doesn't go to Washington
and Baltimore every day. You ought to have several hours in St. Louis if
your train is on time. Be sure to eat three square meals every day and
keep yourself as fresh as you can and I'll back you to pass any fair
test."

"If you have time in St. Louis I want you to be sure to go and see
Shaw's Gardens. They used to be wonderful and they must have been
greatly improved since I saw them," said Mrs. Morton.

Each individual member of the Morton family, except Jilly and Huz and
Buz, took Ernest aside for a parting chat with advice and remembrances.
Jilly and the dogs secured their share by getting in the way as often as
possible.

Chicken Little had her turn first. She tendered the needle case
doubtfully.

"Mother said you would have to sew on your own buttons at the Academy
and that you'd find this mighty handy, but I'd loathe to have anybody
give me such a present. And, Ernest, here's the five dollars I got last
birthday. You take it and buy something you really want."

Ernest demurred about accepting the money, but Jane insisted.

"Little Sis, you're sure a dear----" Ernest found himself choking up
most unaccountably. He gave her a good old-fashioned hug in conclusion
to save himself the embarrassment of words.

Dr. Morton took his son into the parlor and closed the door immediately
after dinner. They stayed an hour, during which time the Doctor gave
Ernest much practical advice about his conduct and sundry warnings not
to be extravagant or careless in handling his money. No sooner had they
emerged, Ernest looking important and rather dazed, when his mother laid
her hand upon his arm, saying: "My son, I also wish to have a little
talk with you. We shall be hurried in the morning so perhaps we would
better have it now."

Ernest returned to the parlor with his mother. Chicken Little lay in
wait outside in the hall. She and Katy had a beautiful plan for a last
boat ride that afternoon. She knew Ernest would be going over to say
good-bye to the Captain anyway.

Chicken Little waited and yawned and waited and squirmed for a solid
hour