t know how to
say it straight."

"That's all right, Ted. It sort of took my own breath away at first. I
couldn't wait to tell you, for you've been the best friend I've had.
You've pulled me through lots of bad places."

Theodora's face was very gentle; but she laughed.

"The chair runs easily, Billy. It didn't take much pulling."

"That's another thing." Billy's face was growing brighter with every
moment. "I've said good-by to the chair."

"What do you mean? You can't walk yet?"

"No; but I'm going to have a tricycle that runs with my hands, and I can
go wherever I choose. How will you like to have me running away from
you?"

"You can't; I'll hang on behind, Billy. A tricycle? How splendid! I
believe I envy you more than ever."

"I'll swap my tricycle for your back," he retorted.

"I wish we could take turns. When is it coming?"

"Friday, the letter said."

"All right; I'll make the most of the time till then. After you get it,
there'll be no catching a glimpse of you."

Billy laughed, and it seemed to Theodora that his laugh was a little
mocking.

"I'll whistle to you, as I go by. Honestly, Ted, it does seem hard to
leave you alone, when we've had such great times together."

His words were the echo of her thoughts. For a moment, Theodora
struggled with herself. Then her real love for her friend triumphed.

"It will make ever so much difference, Billy; but I'm glad of it. We've
had our good times together, lots of them, and there'll always be our
lessons, you know. Truly and honestly, you've had about all the girl you
can stand, and it's time you were able to ride off with the boys."

Billy leaned back in his chair and surveyed her through narrowed lids.

"Girls aren't half bad, Teddy," he observed; "but I'm glad you take it
so philosophically."

There was a long pause. Then Theodora spoke.

"I've some news, too, Billy."

"Good?"

"I thought so, till I heard yours. Now it seems rather flat."

"What is it?"

"My story is done," she answered quietly, but with a little heightening
of her color.

"Done? To the very end? Get it," he commanded.

"No; not yet. I only finished it, last night, and I want time to look it
over, myself, before I show it to you. I may not let you see it, after
all."

"Oh, come now, that's not square! Didn't I help you, I'd like to know?"

Theodora cocked her head on one side, and meditated aloud.

"He furnished hair and eyes for one hero, and a nose for the oth