Daniel pretended not to notice when Chad... began looking over the new Pigeon-Raiser's Guide. I really don't care, anyway, he told himself, and began poking at the fire. Dad sat down in a nearby chair. "So, Daniel, how did your pigeons like their new loft?"

"I don't think you really want this kind of doll, Precious. Even though it's cheap, it's not worth the money." Self-pity tears filled Precious' eyes. "But Mama... I love her, I really do. I don't care if she's got a broken finger. And I have the money... she's on sale...."

Juan was impatient. "Coco, you must hurry or we will never get done," he said sharply. But the little burro only plodded. "Get off and walk, Lucita," Juan said. "You are probably too heavy for him when it is so steep." So Lucita walked behind, holding the red scarf tightly.

It stood before her now, tall and mysterious. What could be so dangerous about it? Broken bricks lay piled in the grass near the window, and as Rosie stepped closer she felt a cool breeze brush her face. What treasure was hidden behind those dark walls?

"There he comes again," said Annie. "He walks this way and seems to be looking for something. He walks slow, and is without his hat. He puts his hand to his head, as if he did not know what to do. Oh, sister, he has gone in again; what shall we do?"

Though Rosie tried to enjoy playing with her little brother and sister, she could not. Every little bang or call made her jump and sent her heart into a flutter. What if someone had seen her when she had stepped on the dresser this morning and knocked the pitcher off?