 Chapter 20 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days Step by step, or rather, move by move, Tavia struggle to reach in safety that heap of white. Oh, if she is only alive, moan Tavia. Why did I not induce her to go back to the junction? I saw she was insane, and now. A huge stone offered her a pause in the dangerous descent. She stopped and listened. Then she called, birdie birdie, no answer. Perhaps she hears and does not know that name. Madam fly fly, she called again, and she thought the sleeve moved. Always that attempt to fly. Tavia slid down from the rock, trembling in limb and throbbing in nerves. She had a terrible fear that the girl was either dying or dead, there with her alone. On a perfectly flat stone, the form lay. Tavia was beside it now. She stooped and listened. Thanks to the good Lord, she is alive. Gasp, Tavia fervently. I must lift her. But there was little trouble in turning the light form over, so that the white face looked up into Tavia's. Oh, sighed the girl. Where am I? Who are you? There was a change, a great change in her manner. Oh, I am so glad you are alive. Breathe, Tavia. And how do you feel? As if something moved in my head. Where is my mother? There was no rambling, she spoke coherently. Are you hurt? Press, Tavia. If only you can move. I am sure I can. The sufferer replied, at the same time making an effort to sit up. I feel better, somehow. How did you come to me? I had a terrible dream. I met you. Do you remember your name? The girl did not answer at once. Then she said very slowly, I am Mary, but they call me Molly. Mary what? Mary Harrewell. Tavia knew better than to ask more questions just then. She almost forgot their predicament in the joy of seeing the girl, apparently sane. I wonder if you can walk. I am going to try. Just give me your hand. There, that's it. And the sufferer pulled herself up and stood beside Tavia. I wonder, might there be a path? I was so alarmed when you fell, that I did not take time to look for one. I just slid down the rocks. But to get up would be very different. It is dark almost. We will have to look. I can't talk, just now. I have that strange feeling in my head. You must not talk. Just follow me. Lean on me. Oh, I am sure we will get up safely. And once upon the road we must find some help. Tavia was afraid to look with too much scrutiny into the white face. Afraid she might again see that wild-eyed warning. Following the mossy way they trudged along. How far away even the sky was. Could two girls be more desolate? Thoughts of camp and of Dorothy almost crushed Tavia. Young and strong as she was. Her experience was beginning to leave its mark. She felt weak and was hungry. But the strange girl seemed to have recovered her reason. Tavia must not falter. She must get up out to the roadway. This looks like a path, she said. Yes, it is a path. See, the brush is trodden down. And the ferns are broken. Oh, someone must have been here lately. And that means that they cannot be very far away. What is your name? Asked the strange girl suddenly. Tavia. Tavia travels. And I am lost. Far away from everyone. Tears welled into Tavia's eyes. Yes, she was lost. And I am lost. How strange that we should meet. But are you not hurt? You walk. Yes, something does hurt. But I don't mind. For that awful dream is gone. I can walk. And then when we are found. Oh yes, I am sure you will be all right as soon as we are found. They had almost reached the crest of the hill. Up there at least they could see. I hear a step, said Tavia. We must hurry. It was difficult to do that. However, for Mary, or Molly, limped painfully. The step was plain now, as it crushed the dried leaves and brush. The figure of a man was next seen. The girls waited. He came along with the free air and a swinging gate. The man wore a slouch hat. Oh, screamed Tavia. We must run or hide. It is that dreadful man, that other, that lunatic. And she clutched the arm beside her and dragged the frightened girl to the edge of the roadway. Mortimer Morrison with his big, rough mountain stick was about to pass. End of Chapter 20. Chapter 21. Dorothy Dale's Camping Days This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This reading by Lucy Burgawin. Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose. Chapter 21. At the Sanitarium When Dorothy recovered consciousness, she lay on a white cot by an open window, and the strange nurse sat beside her. Where am I? What am I here for? Your doctor is away. He will be back tomorrow, soon. The nurse corrected herself. Then perhaps you may go out. But why am I here? This is a hospital, and I am not ill. No, not exactly ill. And Mary Bell had her own very serious doubts about the condition of the young patient. Never had she seen such a demented girl, so perfectly sane. But it is best for you to await your own doctor's orders. She finished. My own doctor, what is his name, please? Dr Ashton, do you remember him? I have never heard the name before, replied Dorothy, looking about her anxiously at the sanitary appointments at the white room. I suppose this is a sanitarium for nerves. You have been here long enough to know that much, said the nurse with a smile. But you seem to have a new kind of nerves. I have only been here a few hours. I should judge, but it did seem an eternity. Are they not going to send for my friends? They will be distracted. I have been away from them for so long. Again, that uncertain look came into the face of the nurse. Surely if this girl had been demented, she must now be very much better. Her talk was entirely rational. And Dorothy was thinking, surely if they believe I am crazy, they must be crazy themselves. The sounds around her are enough to shake anyone's nerves. Someone was singing. The shrill voice rent the air, like some weird cry from a lost mind. It made Dorothy shiver. You think I am demented? She asked finally. But there is some great mistake. I am Dorothy Dale of Dalton. I was camping at Everglade. And I have had a dreadful time of it since I fell. And I was picked up by that old farmer. Dorothy's eyes were full. She had made up her mind, since her escape from the Hobbes house, that she must wait. Wait until those around her saw their mistake. At any rate, it was something to be among intelligent people if they were nurses and doctors. And as they plainly believed her to be an escaped patient, she must wait until someone came to identify her. But now it was very hard and she was very, very lonely and very nervous with those poor demented people singing, sighing, laughing and calling from all over the place. I am sorry, Miss Bennett, had to go away before I saw you, said the nurse vaguely. It would have been better. Miss Bennett? Yes, your regular nurse. I never had a nurse since I had the measles, said Dorothy. And she really felt inclined to laugh. Would you mind if I sat up at the window? I feel perfectly strong now and I want to remember what the blessed world is like. Of course you may sit by the window, replied Miss Bell, assisting Dorothy into a robe. And I don't blame you for wanting to see out of doors. Sometimes I hate being a nurse. I should think you would. It is enough to turn one's own head. Oh, I do wish someone who knows me would come. My father and all my folks will be frantic. Is there anything more dreadful than being lost in the main woods? You are the strongest sick girl I ever saw, declared the nurse. I hope I have made no mistake. Well, indeed you have, replied Dorothy. I tell you, I am not and have never been a patient at any institution. I thought there was some test of mentality. The eye, isn't it? But nurses cannot make tests, answered Miss Bell. We have to wait for the dear professional, all powerful doctors to do that. This is my first day here and I think I am going to be almost as lonely as you are. I am sorry for you, but you may leave if you wish. It is quite different in my case. My dear, if you can only be content tonight, I promise you someone will come tomorrow. They have sent for your mother, Mrs Harrowell. Oh, the mother of the lost girl. Well, she will know, but I must stay all night in this dreadful place, all night. I promise not to leave you. They will send another nurse to relieve me, but I will decline to go. Somehow you have almost convinced me there is a mistake. Thank you, replied Dorothy. Perhaps it will be best not to complain. She was looking out at the beautiful grounds and thinking of the dear ones whose hearts must be torn with anguish for her. If only she could telegraph. Do you think I could send a message? She asked, to my friends, to my cousins at Everglade, I am afraid not until after the doctor sees you. You see, some other patient, a man named Morrison, is blamed for having helped you to escape. Morrison, repeated Dorothy, that is the name of the man who is to blame for all this trouble. That is, we blamed him for inducing a friend of mine to leave our camp. He has a faculty for inducing people to leave, said Miss Bell. We hope we will soon be able to catch him. Then it is not likely that he will get another chance to exercise that fecality. Three patients left the day that you did, the day that she did correct Dorothy. Well, Nurse, since you are so kind to me, we must be friends, and I must not make you any unnecessary trouble. One has to be kind to you, said the Nurse, putting her cheek close to Dorothy's. I must comb out your hair. It has been neglected. Yes, but that will be easily fixed again. Such matters seem scarcely to trouble me now. There are so many bigger things to think of. The Nurse got comb and brush, and started to smooth out the long, light tresses. What is that scratch? She asked, stopping to look at a mark on Dorothy's neck. It may have been the mark left there by Mrs Hobbs's parrot, said Dorothy, or it may be one of the scratches I got when I fell over the cliff. You see, I have been having a dreadful time, but when it is all over, I will have something worth talking about. To tell it, Camp, I hope you will call upon us there. You would not be lonely if you knew our boys, but if you are not, Mary Harrowell, what can have become of her? Asked the Nurse with sudden conviction, and I was sent to find her. But you were directed to find me. Were you not, said Dorothy, in a quick way of helping one out in distress. I do not see how you could be held responsible, but the girl, if she is still at large, she may be dead or injured, said Miss Bell, showing more and more that she did not believe Dorothy to be the person wanted in the sanitarium. I must ask, did no one here know you, or her? Must we wait for that one doctor? At any rate, said Dorothy, I was almost ill, and you have saved me from those dreadful people. My folks will never blame you. If there is a mistake, I'll run away. I could never stand the disgrace, and the Nurse buried her face in our hands. It seems to me a perfectly plain case of mistaken identity, and as you knew neither me nor the girl wanted, I do not see how you could have done otherwise than to take me. I am sure I must have looked and acted demented. I am perfectly positive that you are not now, declared Miss Bell, and no time should be lost in searching for Mary Harrowell. Then I could send a message to Camp, let them know I am safe, and Dorothy sprung up with more emotion than she wished to show, for her every move was being watched. Well, the doctor will be here in the morning, and it is night now. There would be no way of straightening this out until you are positively identified. What a dreadfully lonely place man is. If I were near home, or near any place where people would know me, Dorothy was saying, Miss Bell, you are wanted at the phone, interrupted and attended, appearing at the door. I'll stay until you get back. Miss Bell left the room, and Dorothy did not look at the young woman who had taken her place. There was something so humiliating about being suspected of insanity. How do you like it here? Asked the newcomer. Very well, replied Dorothy, hurt by the sarcasm apparent in the voice. Then why did you run away? Didn't we treat you all right? Dorothy made no reply. The nurse came over and glanced at her keenly. You look pretty fine. Guess the tramp, did you good? They have sent for your mother. She will be here tomorrow. I sent the message, and I told her your mind had cleared up. I hope I made no mistake. I hope not, replied Dorothy, feeling that it was useless to try to explain. I shall be glad when she comes. I'm the night attendant. I will be here in an hour to give you your bath, said the young woman. I am perfectly capable of taking my own bath, replied Dorothy, with indignation. Perhaps that we don't trust patients in the water alone. I hope you won't give me any trouble. I'm tired to death tonight. I will try not to, said Dorothy. Soon Miss Bell returned. Her face was flushed, and she appeared greatly excited. That man, Morrison, has been seen. She said to the other nurse. And two more Mary Harrowells have also been seen. Strange thing how many girls can get demented when one is looked for. But the man, they say, he is not safe. Oh, he's the greatest case we ever had here. He kept us all busy as his audience. He stayed struck, you know, said the other. Have you heard anything of the girl named Tavia Travers? Ask Dorothy timidly. It was searching for her that brought about all this trouble. And I wonder have they found her yet? Tavia Travers, repeated Miss Bell. A girl who says she is Tavia Travers was seen going along the road with the supposed Mary Harrowell. And of course, if she is helping her hide, she may be arrested. Is she a friend of yours? Yes, said Dorothy. Then she fell to thinking how terrible it all was. It begun the day we had the hay wagon accident. She decided. The moment that man crossed our path, he left his shadow. As dear father would say, well, tomorrow I must be set free again. The nurses were talking quietly together as shuffling in the hall disturbed them. A new patient asked Dorothy. No, likely an old one returned, whizzled the information she got. End of chapter 21 Chapter 22 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This reading by Lucy Burgoyne. Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose. Chapter 22 The Clue I cannot go another step beside the girl with Tavia, just as Morrison passed. Hush, caution Tavia. I would rather die than have him see us. I simply cannot stand the thoughts of it all. And on his account, they had succeeded in getting behind a huge tree at the side of the path. The man sauntered along and stopped within five feet of them. The sick girl was cringing with pain. The injured foot became more painful every moment. What is he looking for with Tavia? If he only... There's someone else coming, said Molly. I hear voices. Yes, a crowd of men. They must not see us, declared Tavia. Oh, they are in uniform. They are after someone. Me, moaned Molly. Oh, don't let them take me. I must stay with you. I can get help. They crouched down in the deep grass. The man out on the path was still there, beating a tree with his stick. He did not seem to notice the approaching crowd. The strangers were up to him now. That's him. The girls heard them say. That's Morrison. Who are you? Demanded the queer man. Well, we are just friends, said a tall man with a gold trim cap. We have been looking for you. Won't you come over to the hotel and stay for the night? Not much, replied Morrison. I never go into hotels. I only go on the legitimate stage. I was never a cheap actor. We'll come along to the legitimate stage then, said the man kindly. We will take good care of you. I have lost a friend, went on Morrison, in a rambling way. And until she is found, I do not leave these woods. Tavia's heart stood still. Would the men find them? Oh, sighed the girl with the injured foot. I will throw myself into the creek, before I will go back to the hush they have got him. Two strong men had taken hold of Morrison. At the signal of a shrill whistle, two other men came up the path. Morrison struggled frantically. In the excitement, Tavia and Molly stepped out of their hiding place. But there was so much confusion trying to overcome Morrison, that the girls were not noticed. Oh mercy, gasped Molly. They will hurt him. Not likely, said Tavia. They are hospital attendants. There is the wagon. Oh, I remember it. They took me in that. Molly dear, you are not to remember anything, except that you are with me. But what shall we do when they go? It is night. We will find shelter some place. I am an expert on finding shelter. The girl rested her head against Tavia's shoulder. Whatever compunction Tavia had felt for her part in the unfortunate state of affairs, she felt at ease now in the thought that she had saved this girl. That the hospital men were attending to Morrison, and that he would soon be out of reach of harming her. Also consoled Tavia. It is not bad here, she said. I am sure there are cottages nearby. I don't remember. Breathe, Molly. I guess I was never out this way before. If only I knew. But what is the use of my acting like a baby? Exclaimed Tavia. I am sure the folks at Cab think me dead. Dorothy especially will be heartbroken. They are taking him away. The men had seized the struggling Morrison, and were carrying him to the roadside where the wagon stood waiting. Tavia wondered if she was doing the right or wrong in not making her presence known. Then she thought how hard it would be to have Mary again placed in a sanitarium, and she decided to fight her way alone. But it was getting dark. They could now barely see the men lifting that struggling form into the closely covered wagon. I wonder how they knew he was here. Muse Tavia, if they had not found him what would have become of us? Oh, my foot, I am sure something is broken. With these words, Molly sunk down, helpless. The wagon had rattled off, and again the girls were alone in that deep wood, with the night settling down. I am strong, declared Tavia. I can carry you. But where can we go? Oh, I did not know I was hurt. I am afraid my leg is broken. Stop, Molly. There must be some house or hut near here, declared Tavia, and I will carry you along until we reach it. We cannot spend the night here starving. The strange girl was indeed light in weight, naturally slight. Her sickness had always taken flesh from her, so that when Tavia put her arms around her and the other threw her arms over Tavia's shoulders, the two trudged along over the rough path, and soon were out on a roadway. There is a camp over there, said Tavia, as they came inside of something white, just showing through the sunset. We must go to that. I can walk, insisted Molly. It is too much. So can I carry you, argued Tavia, and if you have any bones broken you must not strain them further. It did seem a long way to the tent, but the road that led up to it showed travel and was therefore more easily followed. Strange, I am not afraid of anything, murmured Molly. If we do have to stay in the woods all night, I shall not be afraid. That is because you are stunned. You had a very bad fall, said Tavia. I feel that way myself. I have gone through a great deal, lately too. Now, let me walk. It is only a step, big Molly, at the same moment getting down from Tavia's arms. Here we are right at the tent. Welcome Shelter. Never were two girls more in need of it. And the queer part of it is, said Tavia, I am supposed to be a joke, to get and take everything funny. This is certainly no joke. How do you feel, dear? I hope these people will let us in. We may get some camping days after all. They timidly made their way to the tent. It was closed. No lights, remarked Molly. Oh, Tavia, my head hurts again. Mercy, exclaimed Tavia, without showing why she was so alarmed. Do you suppose it is just a headache, or Molly had sunk down on her knees, Tavia sprung to the flap of the tent and dragged the rope from the stake? Empty, she cried. But we must get in. Come, Molly, I can lift you. And whoever may be the owners of the camp, surely they will not turn us out tonight. But if they are rough men, no rough men do not furnish a tent like this. See the pictures pinned up. And what is this? Tavia had lighted a candle that was placed conveniently near the flap with matches at hand, showing what who ever lived in the tent intended to return at dark. And so had their light ready. Beside this candle was a printed slip of paper. Tavia read. A thousand dollars reward for information that will lead to the finding dead or alive of Dorothy Dale and Tavia Travers. Dorothy gone to shriek Tavia. Then they are scouring the woods for us, and that is why this camp is deserted. If only I could walk, breathe Molly. Never mind, we will stay here until something else happens, but who can tell what that may be? The shock of the news about Dorothy, absolutely stunned Tavia, with it went all her strength, all her courage, and she felt then like lying down to die. End of Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information, all to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This reading by Lucy Burgoyne. Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose. Chapter 23 Dorothy's Escape When Miss Bell returned to Dorothy's room in the sanitarium after her talk over the telephone, Dorothy saw that her anxiety had reached a state of prostration. She seemed convinced that she had taken to the institution the wrong girl, and the dread of disgrace, especially as she was a new nurse in the house, seemed to weigh very heavily upon her. She would come up and look into Dorothy's face, examine the pupils of her eyes, and then go away sighing. Are you sorry I am not demented? Ask Dorothy with as much inner voice as she could command. Just think what a good time you will have when we get back to camp. I will run away with the only reply the new nurse would make. Night came, and the nurse lay down to rest. Dorothy pretended to do the same thing, but she had resolved to get out of the sanitarium without bringing disgrace on this young woman. But the attempt would be fraught with danger. If she were caught, not only would she be returned to the sanitarium, but she knew there was another ward. Dorothy did not permit herself to think of this. I am going to get away before daylight, she said. Then, when the mother of the missing girl comes and I have gotten away, they will not know whether it was her daughter or me. But to get away would mean trouble for the nurse also. She would be blamed for leaving Dorothy unguarded. The other attendant comes in at five in the morning, decided Dorothy, then I must go. It was an awful thought. She could hear the guards pacing up and down the corridors. She had seen the high fence with its iron palings, and as to gates, there were guards all about them. The nurse's clothes, thought Dorothy, if I could get into Miss Bell's things, they are here in her suitcase. Then I might walk out. But I would faint if they spoke to me. No, I would not. I must have courage. I must be brave. In getting out, I may save my dear folks more anxiety, and I can save this poor little woman. She looked kindly down at the sleeping nurse. The face, even in sleep, was troubled, and the young woman tossed uneasily. Every hour the clock struck in the outside hall, but Dorothy heard it in her prison room. Her mind was first forming this plan, and then that, until she felt if she did not get some sleep, she would never be able to carry out any plan at all. Finally, as the steps and voices in the hall grew fainter, Dorothy did fall asleep, but only to wake with a start, just as the clock struck five. A tap sounded at the door. Miss Bell was dressed and waiting. The nurses were going down to breakfast, and as she left Dorothy with a pleasant word, the other attendant stepped in, picked up a novel and, without noticing Dorothy, any more than if she had been wooden, she sunk lazily down in a chair and started to read. How could Dorothy get on her disguise now? She sighed heavily and almost gave up her plan, but not quite, for in desperate straits one clings to the proverbial straw, and now Dorothy was clutching frantically at anything, at hope. A man poked his head in at the door. Hello, Tom, said the attendant, in no polite voice. What have you got for me? The man winked, and Dorothy turned away. Can't you leave her? He whispered. The woman looked at Dorothy, who pretended to be almost stupid. She had hid her face in her hands. I guess she'll keep, Dorothy heard her say, and with that the nurse stepped out of the door, and Dorothy heard a laugh in the hall, but she did not yet dare to move. In another moment the woman returned. I have got to go out for a minute. She said, just take this pill and sleep. You look tired. Dorothy saw in the woman's hand a slip of yellow paper. Of course it was some message that would violate the rules, and the woman had given her some medicine to make her sleep. I am too sleepy now, said Dorothy, let me alone. That was all the attendant wanted. Quickly she went out, and then Dorothy jumped up. It was better moments work to open the suitcase and slip on the plain white linen dress. Then for something on her head, yes, the cap. There it was, all ready to be put on for the day's work. The looking glass reflected a new Dorothy. She did look like a nurse, and then no one yet knew Miss Bell, but she might be back from breakfast at any moment. Hurry, Dorothy, hurry. One more look. The long dress seemed strange, but not so strange as the agitation that filled her heart and tingled her nerves. She opened the door and went out into the hall, just as an attendant was turning out the electrics, for it was daylight. Good morning, said the first guard, sitting in his big chair, while the marble hall seemed like an ocean to Dorothy. Good morning, replied Dorothy lightly. Then the nurses were leaving breakfast. She could hear the voices, if only she could get out before Miss Bell came. Did you see the new girl? She heard someone say. Yes, and she has been called into the office. That would give Dorothy time. More guards, so many there seem to be now, and each with his good morning. But Dorothy had taken courage. She felt better out of that room. It was glorious to be so near freedom. Is that the new nurse, said a big man, who actually stood at the door. Looks like her, replied another, with something like a sneer. She'd be a lot of good with anyone but babies, said a third. Then he stepped up to Dorothy. She felt as if she would drop down. Out early, he said, peering into her frightened face. Yes, is that time right? She asked on the spur of the moment, thinking to divert his attention from her face. He looked up at the big clock. If it was right, it wouldn't be here. He replied with a laugh. But don't get lost. You are on duty at seven. He went on. But I guess a sniffer bear won't do you any harm. We all take what we can get in that line. Yes, and Dorothy tried to smile. He had not discovered her, but when Miss Bell reached the room. Oh, if she could only fly over those big stone walls, that the outside was even more closely guarded than was the inside. Especially since two patients had so lately escaped. Down the steps went the trembling girl, how splendid it was in the fresh morning air. And if I can only get a message back to camp, she was thinking, what will happen to dear father if I am not soon discovered? Over the stone wall, she sped. She glanced down the path. The front gate was impossible. Back at the institution, she saw a great barn. Then water. Oh, if she could butt past the stableman, they would not be as keen to suspect as would be the guards. Everyone seemed busy. They were cleaning the horses and fixing up the big stables. Merry morning words floated through the air. And it seemed to Dorothy that her presence, that of the nurse, as they supposed, was always a signal for some joke or some frivolous remark. But there was no harm in this, she thought. Inside the stone walls, everybody must be akin. Hello there, called a rather young man, who in shirt sleeves was rubbing down a horse. Where are you going so early? Dorothy scarcely dared answer. But fate saved her. For at that moment the horse took fright at something and broke away from its post. Instantly there was confusion and Dorothy was forgotten. Up on the terrace were patients out in the air with guards. And in that direction dashed the horse, while every man from the stable ran after it. This left Dorothy almost free. She saw a summer house on the edge of a lake. Yes, and there was a canoe. What a chance. She shoved that canoe over the smooth grass, straight for the water. The paddles were inside. And Dorothy knew that once she was upon the water, she could escape. Shouts from the terrace almost stunned her. She pushed the canoe into the stream, slid into the frail bark and started off. Just as the stableman came back over the grounds with the practice horse. End of Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This reading by Lucy Burgoyne. Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose. Chapter 24 A Lonely Ride No sooner had Dorothy paddled around the bend in the stream that led into the river than she heard the alarm bell at the sanitarium ring. That's the alarm for me, she told herself. But they could never see me in this narrow pass. How fortunate that no one saw me take the boat. And I suppose they think I escaped from the front gate during the excitement about the horse. Dorothy was right in her surmise. So reasonable did it seem that she had passed out by the front gate when the guards came to the rescue of those in danger from the frightened horse. And no one thought of looking at the rear of the institution. I wonder where I am going, she thought. Perhaps this river runs into a dangerous rapid. I have always heard that main waters are full of surprises. At any rate, this is lovely. She went unusingly. And somehow I feel that I will get back to camp before nightfall. The water was as smooth as glass and in the sunshine that every moment became more insistent. Dorothy in her linen dress paddled away with all the skill she had acquired in dear old Glenwood Skilled Lake. She had discarded the nurse's cap and the coat. And as her own suit was beneath the linen she was only waiting for an opportunity to discard the skirt. At pulled, she thought, I might as well drop it now. At this she stood up in the canoe very cautiously and with one move of her hand dropped the skirt into the bottom of the boat. There, that's more like paddling, she thought. Adjusting herself again, she picked up the blade and plied it through the clear water. Suddenly the report of a gun startled her. Was it at her that the shot had been fired? Glancing over at the bank, she saw something fall. Could some person have been shot? The season for shooting was not open, but perhaps then her alarms subsided. A man, who looked like an Indian or a lumberman, was pulling at something that was a beautiful young deer. Indignation filled her heart, but what could she do alone on that water and that man so near with his gun? Fortunately, he was so interested in looking at his game that he thought it not worthwhile to look at whoever might be passing in the skip. So, once more, Dorothy slid out of danger down the placid stream. In all her trouble, she had kept the little watch and her compass, and just now it occurred to her that by consulting the magnetic instrument she could tell whether she was going in the direction of Everglade. She paused in her action to look at the trembling needle. Yes, I am going toward camp, due east. How slightly she paddled along, it seemed now that the sanitarium was past finding for the noise of the bell and the whistle had ceased and that everything, even the talking of the man to himself as he pulled the deer over his shoulders was gone, and Dorothy was all alone on the delightful lake, moving toward camp. It all seemed like some horrible dream, all but the thought that she was going back, back to her dear ones, who must be so anxious. I hope I have saved poor Miss Bell. She thought that girl seemed to dread something more than the mere mistake in taking me instead of the other patient. She slowed up to gather some water lilies. I'll take them to Cologne. She thought, I wonder where the girls are. I suppose scouring the country for me. Well, Tavia must have been found at any rate. Poor foolish Tavia. I hope they have not blamed her. A gentle swish at the water startled her. She turned to see two canoes approaching. Are they after me? She thought, and her heart jumped. I must have some excuse ready if they question me. I will just say I am from Camp Capital and have come out for exercise. They may not know how far away our camp is. She heard the other paddles in the lake. Then they ceased to cut the water. On either side of her canoe, the two other crocs suddenly appeared. What if this boat is marked? She thought, if it should have some lettering to show it is from the sanitarium. That was the first time this had occurred to her. But the canoeists were now actually looking very pleasantly at her. Two young men. They seemed too well-mannered to speak. And Dorothy wanted so much to speak with them now that she felt they had no idea of her predicament. Finally one said, We beg your pardon, that might you have a bit of canvas that you could let us take. We have a small leak in the side of this canoe and the water is coming in. Dorothy breathed a sigh of relief. Then she looked about her boat, although she knew it was quite empty when she slid into the water. I'm afraid not, she replied. I never carry anything for such an emergency. It's a delightful morning. Said the other young man. Out of pure stability. Have you been out long? Oh no, not very. That is, it does not seem long to me. Stammered Dorothy still afraid that she would be caught in some new trap. I love the water. You seem to, agreed the young man with the college cap. We have been out with a searching party. Have you heard of the strange disappearance of two young girls? Dorothy gasped. Two, she repeated. I suppose we ought to say three, since one from a sanitarium has not yet been discovered. But the insane, they say, have some weird manner of attracting self-preservation. Have they been dragging the lake? Asked Dorothy, her voice all the tremble. No, not yet. Although many have wanted to, but we have so many people lost in these woods every summer that we feel it is a case of that kind. We suppose the girls who did not go off together met later somehow and in trying to make their way back got deeper into the woods. And their folks from camp asked Dorothy, we have not been to see them, said the young man, some of the boys there are friends of ours. And as soon as we have looked this place over, as well as we can do it, we are going up to Everglade. The girl's father is an old soldier and they say he is still a soldier in this trouble. Dorothy felt as if she must speak, but asked them to take her back to the camp, wherever it might be. But suppose they should take her back to Bill. No, she must find her way on alone. Perhaps she could follow them. By this time the two canoeists had glided on ahead. Dorothy felt as if her heart would choke her. Then her father was still bearing up, waiting for her. She must soon reach him. A shout from the bank and the two young men turned into shore. Come on, someone call. The clue, get in here. We must get over to but that was all Dorothy who and again she was alone on the lake. For the space of the moment or so she felt that she had made a mistake. Then came the awful thought of that sanitarium and the knowledge that the people from there were searching everywhere for her. No, I will go down the lake because I am free now. She told herself it was nearing noon she could tell by the sun and she felt the need of food. Just below her she could see that the lake broadened and there she determined to stop. Her arms were getting stiff and the sun burned down on her head which was uncovered. Seems to me I hear voices. She thought I must go into shore. First of all she swung into the grassy bank. No sooner had her paddle sent her boat within richer shore than she saw. Oh my, it's our camp. She yelled frantically jumping out and attempting to run up the hill toward the barn that eager ears had heard her voice. The next moment Dorothy Dale was clasped in the arms of her father. Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org This reading by Lucy Burgorn Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose Chapter 25 Looking for Tabia What joy there was in that camp when Major Dale actually carried in Dorothy. A signal had been arranged to notify those in the woods if any good news came and as Major Dale placed his daughter in the arms of Cologne Mrs Markin ran out of doors and blew the big horn until she had no more breath left. This was heard by Jack Ned and Nat who were just then preparing to drag the lake. There were no words to express the joy all felt but Dorothy looked around for Tabia and asked prantic questions. You must not think of her insisted Mrs Markin bringing in some warm tea you have done enough for her Of course she hurried to add seeing the look that came into Dorothy's face we will find her but you are not to leave this camp well and I don't know when we will let you leave it again. Oh you darling Cologne was crying hysterically I can never let you out of my sight again to think that I should have done so in those deep woods I have had a great time exploring said Dorothy and I think Cologne that there are many kinds of camping days but if you will only let me go out I have an idea I know where Tabia might be then she told of her trip on the lake and how quickly the young canoeists let the water to answer a call of the clue having been found Ned stood looking down at Dorothy to make sure that she was in the flesh Mrs White had not been told of Dorothy's disappearance they felt however that they would have had to notify her had Dorothy remained away until another sundown Nat was speechless his hands and face showed the signs of his days and nights of anxiety and he was not entirely relieved since there was even now no clue to Tabia the river he suggested at least Dorothy is safe and we can leave her but Tabia I could not stay indoors declared Dorothy I should go to pieces the only thing that will save me is action let me help look for Tabia she pleaded and begged and at last Mrs Markin agreed that it might be best to let her have the freedom at the air so if he had not yet told all of her story all the folks knew definitely was that the lost had been found it took scarcely no time for the searching party to be made up again the boys from the next camp had their craft already on the water while Ned and Nat had but to push off their rowboat why do you think Tabia is somewhere about the river edge asked Ned in his practical way because when I came down I heard someone call and two young men from their canoes answered promptly that they would follow the clue now if I can only find the spot where in the well did this canoe come from exclaimed Jack Markin as he espied the boat in which Dorothy had escaped from the sanitarium it is Mark Brendan repeated Ned why that's the asylum over the hill everybody looked at Dorothy awaiting a word from her she was almost like herself now after the manner in which blessed youth alone can recuperate I was not particular about whose boat it was she said simply so long as I found something to get back to camp in Dorothy should leave mother begun Cologne but Dorothy interrupted her did you ever notice Cologne dear how a storm clears it takes the light wind doesn't it well this little excitement will clear things up for me why is Dorothy was of course not opposed she belonged to the class of persons who seem to be capable and who really are except where their own personal safety or comfort is concerned they always have a reason and an answer simply because others do not take the trouble to fathom the motive for this sacrifice Dorothy had determined to find Tavia and whatever her excuses they were all subservient to that motive I would rather get in with Nat and Ned as the party prepared to get off in the boats I am really too tired to skull what's this ask Jack picking up the nurses garb from the bottom of the sanitarium canoe I declare Dorothy has been masquerading he held up the linen skirt and the white cap of course the very next thing he did was to put the cap on his head everyone but Cologne she seemed too stunned too soon to forget the horror of the loss of Dorothy the young ladies from the neighbouring camp had decided not to go on the water in fact their chaperone had refused to allow them to go there had been so many horrible accidents around there of late she declared Major Dale stood upon the bank and watched his daughter to the others it might seem like a dream but to him it was very real Dorothy had been such a daughter and even now she was proving herself the Major's little corporal nor did Dorothy miss the look that had buried the smile on her father's face now when we get that naughty Tavia back she called we will have a celebration daddy you bet we will replied the Major finally and then the party started down the river I cannot see how Tavia could be along the river bank and not hear us argued Ned Dorothy you have not told us your story at all were you both kidnapped I have never seen Tavia since that morning we went for berries she declared that my what an age it has been since then I guess blasted Nat in his whole hearted way and he bent over his oars I don't want another batch of time as long as the last and of course you could not get us any word ventured Ned we fell down on that it was my one milestone but it is strange how secret some places can be kept said Dorothy cautiously it seems that they are so afraid of publicity there that looks like the place where the canoeists went ashore no it is farther up near the willow we must pull in there and search I do wish I could have but what is the use of wishing mere waste of tissue said Ned with a smile he was only a boy a big boy but the fright of having lost Dorothy had not left unscathed the others in the boats took the signal from Ned and were making for sure it was a rough place indeed first rocky then a matter of holes and after that it was trees dense stubborn trees a sense of horror stole over Dorothy as she again stepped into the woods but in her brave way she instantly decided a matter of reflection and the question in hand was not one of memory but one of facts Tavia was still somewhere in those woods or she was no she must be in the woods first calling then running from point to point the party searched the cologne would not lose her hold on Dorothy you are not going to get away I shall always blame myself for losing sight of you cologne as if I am not big enough to take care of myself cried Dorothy thinking how she had cared for herself through more difficulties than any of them could possibly imagine all through the woods could be heard shouts and signals from the parties that were out searching for Dorothy for Tavia and for the girl from the sanitarium lots of people get lost in these woods commented Ned I had been reading of them all my life but now I guess I can write tales myself the voices of our friends had attracted a party from the sanitarium Dorothy was the first to recognise a guard and as he came toward her she screamed and ran into Ned's arms oh don't let them take me again she begged they think I am that other girl stay near hold me, don't let them take me instantly the excitement was intense from the hospital party two men had come up while all the campers Jack, Nat and Ralph hurried close why should they take you demanded Ned oh they made the mistake before and I suppose they have seen their boat quick to act as to think Ned picked Dorothy up in his arms and turned into a natural hiding place there they have not seen you let them look further on he whispered of course the others could not even guess what had caused the sudden change in Dorothy's manner but Ned knew it was not mere excitement here he said in a pillow of moss you and Cologne stay here while I go out and see the hospital men I will assure them no patient of theirs is with us Dorothy lay back exhausted if only they would go along but suppose they should find Tavia and take her to that dreadful asylum voices very near gave her a chance to listen she heard someone say that a young girl had that morning escape from the institution in the house canoe and that the boat was now lying close by but in turning into the deep brush the strange men had not actually caught sight of the frightened girls as the heavy woodland offered all sorts of excuses for visions well we must get her said one of the men she walked right past me and said good morning try to know who the new nurse or the new patient was the trouble is now with the mother she is beyond consolation End of Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days This is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information all to volunteer visit LibriVox.org this reading by Lucy Burgoyne Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose Chapter 26 Dorothy's Success The boys from Camp Capital together with their neighbours held a consultation there in the woods they had heard from the sanitarium attendants that not only had a young girl escaped and not yet found but that some weeks previously a man, stage struck as they put it had gotten away and it was to his help that the departure of the girl was attributed Dorothy from her hiding place heard all this and knew only too well that the man referred to and this fellow has been caught asked Ned anxiously yes replied one of the men we took him in again yesterday afternoon is he too demented to tell anything that is to know who was with him while he was free went on Ned oh he just talks in a rambling way about a girl who he declares should have a fortune that his uncle has hidden away he has really never been entirely off but one of the kind who rides a hobby you know said the man his hobby is theatricals but has he an uncle might he have taken a girl to that man persisted Ned you see we have reason to believe that the girl we are in search of met this man now he has been captured what has become of her that is one of the questions we may have to answer before our board of inquiry replied the man with no small concern it is easy enough for those lunatics to get away but to get them back is harder and the girl's mother is a widow with all kinds of money Dorothy could scarcely keep still maybe the pressure of Cologne's hands kept her from telling what she knew of the story then the fear of the gain being mistaken for Mary Harrowell that was too great a risk is there absolutely no clue arsn't that almost in despair that he was always fond of Tabia yes the station agent at Lexington tells the story about a girl coming to him and staying in the station alone all night but he declares she had dark hair and brown eyes while Mary Harrowell is a blonde others about the station agree with him that girl left for the junction night before last and was not picked up dead or alive since the officials of the road have had searched every inch of the track it seemed that old Sam Dixon is very worried about this because he let the girl go he did not know just who she was but to hear him talk you would think it was his daughter well we must go beating father along this searching and with night coming is no fun we wish you luck and if you find your girl let us know and then Dorothy was free to leave her hiding place she longed to tell her friends the strange story but she knew that the finding of Tabia was the one and only thing to be thought of just then are you sure that this is the direction in which the boys went ask Nat with something like a sigh Dorothy looked over the rough woodland no she said there was a swamp for I distinctly remember that they picked their way through tall grass and about here the grass is actually dried up then to find a swamp said Nat seems to me there are more kinds of trees in Maine and more kinds of things to catch at a fellows a cry from Ned stopped the speech oh he yelled something has my foot come quick oh maybe it's a rattlesnake gasp cologne or maybe a big wrap at a jack as they all ran back to where Ned lay in the grass trying to free himself from whatever it was that held him it hurts he said get it off Jack was the first to get down and look at the struggling boy a trap he announced easy don't pull it Ned more things than trees and lost girls in the Maine woods exclaimed Nat gee whiz I wonder what will strike next just take a strike at this trap big Ned seems to me it takes oh be careful Jack that hurts let me suggest a Dorothy I can open it without hurting him and she stooped over her cousin oh you poor boy it has a cut right through your shoe now Jack just hold the end of the chain so that it cannot slip back she ordered cologne dear can you unlace this shoe oh of course grailed Nat it takes a girl any objections ask Ned getting back to his good humour now if this were Nat it would take a whole boarding school of girls Dorothy and cologne very gently help the boys get the steel trap free from the shoe it took some time to do it without pressing the jaws still farther in through the leather but they succeeded now you must go back in the boat decide a Dorothy we cannot run the risk of having a boy never declared Ned I have often had worse than this and have gone on after the game he got to his feet that limped as he walked the foot had been lacerated what foolish hunters ever put that trap there he asked I would not be surprised if it were the man who shot the deer replied Dorothy shot a deer at this season exclaimed Jack I think he was an Indian I saw him as I came along in the canoe replied Dorothy I thought at the time it was against the law can you walk Ned I do wish he would go back seems to me we ought to separate interposed Ralph we can never make any headway together well I will not leave Dorothy declared Cologne stoutly I left her once no I left you once corrected Dorothy in a one way I've always taken the blame I think however Ralph is right suppose the boys keep along the water and Cologne and I go farther in then I go with you Ralph gallantly it is not altogether safe in the deep woods there might be lunatics or muskrat traps grown Ned who walked with difficulty at this they separated for some time they heard nothing more than their own voices calling back and forth isn't it awful side Cologne Dorothy I think it is utterly useless I am afraid she is dead I know she is not declared Dorothy and I am not going to give up until I have searched every inch of this wood now I am going to shout Tavia Tavia she yelled and her clear voice struck an echo against the hills Tavia Tavia she called again Hark said Cologne didn't I hear I heard something declared Dorothy and the sound came from back of the hill boys boys she shouted but they were now too far away to answer promptly don't try to follow Cologne I feel that I can run like the wind I heard Tavia's voice and I heard it right over there as she flew through the woods Cologne in distress tried to summon the boys she feared Dorothy would fall again over some rock or cliff but there was no use trying to stop her she had heard Tavia's voice and that was enough end of chapter 26 chapter 27 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org this reading by Lucy Burgoyne Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose chapter 27 one kind of camp O Tavia where are you it was Dorothy who jumped from rock to stone and over bush and bramble through that deep dark wood which now in the shadow of sunset threatened again to bring anguish to our young friends I heard you she called answer again but this time there was no response oh what can have happened while Dorothy surely she is not too ill when she called and whistled this now she was talking but no one was at hand to hear her Cologne was doing her best to reach Dorothy but she had made a turn to notify the boys and was really too surprised and frightened to make anything like the progress that her friend was able to make through the rough forest Dorothy stopped and listened she had reached a cleared spot the beautiful firs stood out over a grinswood like a natural tower without hesitating a moment Dorothy easily scaled the strong branches and presently could see from the height of the fir tree a spot ideal yes and there was something white on it Cologne she called I see a tent by this time Cologne had reached Dorothy oh do come down she begged if you should slip but I shall not slip there was no use in running wild through the woods when I could get a distinct view from here it may be a gypsy camp where are the boys they seem to have gotten away somehow side Cologne oh what shall we do we cannot go alone to that camp indeed I am going declared Dorothy I heard Tabby's voice and now I see a tent if she is held there we must go to her at once Cologne was terrified but the experience through which Dorothy had passed in the last few days seemed to make all other fears look insignificant she had slid down the tree and was now making her way in the direction of the tent it was near the edge of a natural bank like a windshield against the rocks this shelf made a covering for the spot so that only from some elevation such as from the tree could it be seen for any distance come on Cologne said Dorothy I see a path to the place it must be somebody's camp why not wait for the boys give me your whistle I must call them where can they have gone to I am not going to wait one moment declared Dorothy she may be suffering the bent grass and weeds showed the way Dorothy hurried along only stopping to listen for the hoped for voice but there was no word from Tabby Cologne was almost behind Dorothy but she could not conquer her fear she hesitated to make the first attempt to reach the tent jumping over a small stream Dorothy was beside the camp furnace the next moment she stood looking at Tabby Tabby she exclaimed hush whisper Tabby we must not wake her oh Dorothy like a poor crushed bird Tabby fell at Dorothy's feet she sobbed convulsively but choked back every possible sound darling whispered Dorothy what is it the sick girl she has almost died oh I dare not answer again she was so frightened at my voice run back Cologne and meet the boys said Dorothy tell them to go for a doctor glad to get away Cologne turned just as the boys came racing over the hill they stopped at her raised hand but Nat would not go back when he heard that Tabby had been found softly he made his way along rail firing at some distance Walnett and Jack hurried to the shore near where they had left their boats they knew that just across the river they would find a camp in which might be found Dr Ashton from New York it was almost pitiable how Tabby had clung to Dorothy never suspecting of course the Dorothy had herself gone through and experienced more trying than her own let me see her suggest to Dorothy I will be very careful she stepped within the tent instantly she was struck with the resemblance between herself and the girl who lay on the cot the sick girl opened her eyes Tabbya she murmured what dear asked Dorothy for Tabbya had not yet recovered herself I am so much better I would like to sit up not just yet dear soothe Dorothy putting her hand to the hot forehead it will be better to rest tonight but you must not stay longer from your friends she said leave me and look for them then come back we are here venture Dorothy aware that the girl was worrying about Tabbya we have come to take you both home not back there and the girl sat bolt upright and looked into Dorothy's pale face no to camp with us with Dorothy and with Tabbya then we will send for your mother oh I am so glad she sighed on the pillow Nat had Tabbya in his arms she was now almost hysterical and like the Nat he had always been he turned the tables by accusing Tabbya of having all the camping to herself while we were digging up frog ponds looking for you he scolded he would set yourself up in one of the best establishments in the state oh Nat she saw you only knew every girl says that he replied I suppose it would be a first rate thing if a fellow did only know about a girl like you he was doing his best to quiet her and he knew that to scold her is a good sort of treatment for too much nerves meanwhile Cologne and Ralph had ventured nearer they seemed afraid that a voice and Cologne only whispered Tabbya dear she said whatever has happened she has promised to tell me first said Nat again showing his good sense in saving Tabbya just then and we are not to hear one word until we get back to camp here come Ned and Jack and Dr Ashton interrupted Ralph who is sick? a friend of Tabbya's stopped him said the wily Nat that was why she could not get word to us her friend was very sick and her folks were all away Tabbya looked her gratitude into Nat's manly face the boys and the doctor had reached the tent Wade here ordered the doctor as he stepped within and it was Dorothy Dale who took up her place by the position side and called to unfold the case of Mary Harrowell and however did you find this camp one of the best for miles around asked Nat of Tabbya as they waited the doctor's verdict we fell into it who's is it? why the Babitz left in a hurry last week someone ill they have not sent down for their things yet lucky for us remarked Tabbya then they heard the doctor moving about in the tent and lowered their voices End of Chapter 27 Chapter 28 Dorothy Dale's Camping Days this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org this reading by Lucy Burgoyne Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Penrose Chapter 28 Good News oh such good news exclaimed Dorothy emerging from the tent it is worth all our trouble what asked a chorus she will be better she has recovered her reason the doctor says some shock oh but it was an awful shock interrupted Tabbya I believe if I had any reason it would have destroyed mine always knew there was a method in your madness Tabbya said Nat now that's something like we are going to take her to camp tonight went on Dorothy too serious to take a joke Doctor Ashton says nothing could be better for her there are camps and camps persisted Nat Ned was talking to the doctor we can carry her on the cot just as well as not insisted Nat there are four of us and put her in the boat well I think that will be alright answered the doctor the present trouble is more of a morbid fear than anything else and he put his stethoscope in its case as soon as she feels the fresh air and realises that she is out of all harms way I think she will sit up and take notice interrupted Nat for he could not help making light of the troubles with which he felt the girls were too heavily burdened exactly that agreed the doctor Miss Harrell could not have fallen into better hands I will however see her safely into the boat it was a delightful task to assist the sick girl in realizing what it would mean ultimately Dorothy insisted that Tabia go on ahead with Cologne as she had had Dorothy said enough of nursing but Tabia wanted to leave some word at the tent a written word about its use to this no one would agree so she was obliged to go on without doing as she wished down the cliff started the party with Cologne was soon joined by three of the haze girls from the next camp who although they had not been allowed to go with the searching party managed to follow them at a distance and who had heard of the discovery when the boys went for the doctor then came the boys Ned, Nat, Ralph and Jack carrying Molly on a cot Dorothy held Molly's hand and talked cheerfully to her as they all moved carefully along Dr Ashton had reason to be particularly interested it was he who had taken his vocation from the sanitarium when Molly made her escape he too had been impressed by the similarity between Dorothy and Molly but of course he did not speak of it neither did he know of the trouble the ambulance had made for Dorothy the trip on the water was made without a mishap and as the doctor said Molly gained strength and courage with almost every new breath then to the camp Dorothy ran on ahead for Molly was walking oh what has happened now asked Mrs Marken seeing the boys supporting Molly nothing but good news this time replied Dorothy we have found Tabia we have found a sick girl and we have brought them all back to have a good time at Camp Capital this was good news indeed Dorothy always knew how to cheer welcome announced the lady planting a kiss on Dorothy's now flush cheek there is a visitor waiting for you he added for me Mary Bell the nurse stepped out on the camp porch she was smiling and all the anxiety had left her face you little robber she said to Dorothy where are my clothes but before she could get a reply she saw Mary Harrowwell she was too well trained to need an explanation of the case as it stood now there were to her two Mary Harrowwells twins was all that Mrs Marken said as she helped the sick girl up the steps Miss Bell instantly took charge of Molly she was removed to a quiet room in the camp barn away from all noise and all confusion Daddy whispered Dorothy as the major stood looking lovingly at her come on she led him to the stable where the old horse Jeff stood waiting to take his part in the important work let's hitch up and drive over to Blenden we can make it before dark and I want to be the first to tell Mrs Harrowwell I could never trust to a message with the word to Mrs Marken the major agreed it was not so long a journey when the straight road was taken it was the turns and twists that led everyone astray Major Dale knew the road and he and Dorothy went merrily on with words of love and tenderness that only such a father and daughter know how to exchange Dorothy learned that the boys Roger and Joe had not heard a word of her trouble and she at once determined not to tell even her father all that she had suffered she had to explain a cause about being in the sanitarium about the Hobbes imprisonment she decided to say nothing reaching the sanitarium Dorothy shuddered as she asked the guards at the gate if she might see the superintendent when the man doffed his cap to the distinguished looking major Dorothy again gained her composure Mrs Harrowwell sat in the hall and was evidently much distressed Dorothy stepped up to her and the woman started Molly she gasped then she saw her mistake but we have come to take you to Molly said Dorothy and I want to be the first to tell you the good news Molly is better better repeated the woman vaguely the deep lines of trouble shadowing her pale face yes she wants to see you she knows all about everything your daughter madam said major Dale has recovered her reason impossible gasped the poor mother not at all declared the major but come along and you will see for yourself an attendant had stepped up and was looking curiously at Dorothy she took her father's hand any word asked the nurse not for you replied Mrs Harrowwell with dignity I find there are better places than sanitariums all nervous girls come along sir, thank you as she took the major's arm and left the place how that mother listened to Dorothy's words that her daughter had talked as Dorothy said that she was at a nearby camp oh it was good news indeed and she's going to stay with us as Dorothy warned her we will not let her go to any more hospitals never exclaim the mother firmly Molly may stay any place she chooses she's all I have and I so nearly lost her it was a beautiful evening the sun had just set over the hills could be seen tense their flags flying and their happy young and old owners could be heard singing calling and shouting could be seen building fires and doing all the thousand and one absurd things that humanity insists upon doing every time it gets the chance it is lovely to camp venture Dorothy we have had rather an interrupted season but I hope we shall make up for it if money will help you it shall be yours declared the anxious woman my daughter has more than she can ever use Dorothy looked at her in silence then it was well indeed to have been lost and found for the sake of this dear girl this is our camp said Dorothy as they reached it Mrs. Harrowell fairly ran up those barn steps but who would try to tell what happened when she found her daughter End of Chapter 28 Chapter 29 Dorothy Dales Camping Days this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information auto-volunteer please visit LibriVox.org this reading by Lucy Burgoyne Dorothy Dales Camping Days by Margaret Penrose Chapter 29 The Roundup Conclusion It's up to Tavia I have told you every word I am going to tell she declared oh no you haven't objected net I want to know about that Stagie fellow I don't quite fancy his interference he didn't interfere declared Tavia and I am not going over that thing again oh no he didn't interfere repeated Ned he merely had at all his own way now if I had long hair Ned interrupted Dorothy please don't you must remember that the poor fellow was not responsible Lucky dog murmured Ned giving Cologne one of his favourite looks Ned had a fancy for Cologne then I think that Dorothy ought to tell her part in Sister Jack we have heard rumours of terrible things mere rumours said Dorothy with a laugh why shouldn't I be entitled to my own experience haven't I paid it all back to you not for the shoe that caught in the trap said Ned facitiously nor for visiting absolute strangers like those Hobbeses added Cologne and they are completely out of our set well I don't mind agreed Jack we have found Molly Jackie you do know a good thing when you see it complimented Ned Molly sat out on the low camp still very close to Jack and it was plain there was no objection on the part of either as to this particular closeness Ralph says nothing begun Tavia but Sourcewood added Ned with a wink the Ralph seemed to have appropriated Dorothy altogether they were a happy set of campers it was only 10 days since the close of that distressing search that had taken up so many of their camping days but there was still left plenty of time for the best of outings which their keenness after their troubles made them all merry Camp Dorothy was the name of the new tent that Mrs. Harrowell had sent up immediately after her daughter's installation with the campers with the express came two maids one for work and the other to look after Molly Mrs. Harrowell had to be content with stopping at a nearby hotel but every day she came over to the camp and really was almost like a young girl herself so great was her joy in the sudden restoration of her daughter's health it developed that the Sick Girls case had been one of pure melancholia following a shock of grief and that her association with Dorothy and her friends was the one thing she most needed the second shock in falling had restored her reason but Tavia could not forget that her fault had caused great trouble to Dorothy and try but after did she could not get Tavia to resume her usual good spirits but it takes Nat whispered clone as he and Tavia sauntered off to catch imaginary trout needn't worry about Tavia's nerves I moved said Rell that the heroine are him he excused from duty for the period of two weeks every time I asked Dorothy she has to wash dishes Dorothy blushed prettily I must do my share of the housekeeping she insisted besides it's fun Rell was not to be put off this time however and he declared that if Dorothy did not go for a sale with him that very afternoon he would drown himself oh such luck shouted Ned he was around here Major Dale stood watching but hardly listening what's the answer uncle asked Ned seeing that the major had something to say I have just been wondering he said with a twinkle in his eye what would have happened if Dorothy had not gone up that tree and new boys that's all interrupted Nat who had returned to the group you are excused I have been wondering putting Mrs. Harrowell who with Mrs. Markin was enjoying the afternoon on the porch within hearing distance what would have happened if Dorothy had not been mistaken for Molly it was the lucky mistake but Dorothy insisted she had done nothing extraordinary yet she could not help but wonder what would happen next and what did happen will be told in another book to be called Dorothy Dale's school rivals in which we shall learn the particulars of some stirring doings at Gleamwood Academy all the same declared Tabia a little sheepishly I don't believe it pays to try to keep Dorothy out when there's a question of common sense finish Cologne there's the cowbell Tabia sprung up and darted down the path Nat 5 she hasn't learnt to work yet commented Cologne she never knew a thing about how Tabia done the Station Master socks Camp Dorothy had been closed tight all day as tea time struck the maid threw up the big flap surprise, surprise she called and such a feast as was spread the very best it could be obtained for miles about Everglade End of Dorothy Dale's Camping Days by Margaret Pinrate