I don't know why," he continued, thoughtfully.
"Perhaps they still have some gentlemanly instincts," suggested Patsy.
"That must be it," he replied in a relieved tone.

"Well, anyhow, to avoid quarrels and bloodshed we've agreed to throw dice for the dances.

Every one is to have an equal chance, you see, and when you young ladies open the dance the entire programme will be arranged for you." "Are we to have no choice in the matter of partners ?" inquired Beth curiously.
"None whatever.

There would surely be a row, in that case, and we intend to have everything; pass off pleasantly if we have to kill a few to keep the peace." With this Stubby bowed low and retreated toward the door, which suddenly opened to admit old Dan'l the fiddler, who was thrust in so violently that his body collided with that of Stubby and nearly knocked him over.
"That's all right," laughed the remittance man, recovering from the shock.

"You mustn't escape, you know, Dan'l, for we depend on you for the music." He closed the door as he went out and they all heard a bolt shoot into place.