Take, oh, take, this rosy, rosy crown,
Flora's richest treasures,
Flora's richest treasures,"—
and Ernestine placed a crown of flowers on Gretta's brow.
Gretta was quite overcome with pleasure and surprise, for the girls had so skillfully hidden their little gifts that she had not even caught a glimpse of them.
Just then the door opened, and the hostess' sister appeared at the door, saying, "Tea is ready, Gretta." Before they did anything else, however, Gretta had to exhibit her presents. They were duly admired, and then Miss Josephine said, "Come on, now; I'll head the procession. Keep step."
Through the open door came the sound of a lively march, which even Gretta had never heard before.
"That is a new march which father composed in honor of your birthday. He calls it 'Gretchen's March.'"
Winnifred popped a big marshmallow into her mouth.—See page 72.