"Well, it's fine to have you here," said Dorothy, "but I do truly b'lieve it's almost nicer to be surprised, and have you;" and she threw her arm around Flossie, as she walked beside her.
Tall, handsome Uncle Harry thought he saw a chance for a bit of a joke.
"I wonder why some one isn't surprised to see me?" he said.
"Oh, I am," said Dorothy, "and glad, too."
"Well, thank you," said Uncle Harry; then with a face that he tried to make sad, he said:
"But I know you aren't as glad as you were to see Flossie, because,—you didn't put your arm around my waist!"
He had tried to look very glum, but his blue eyes were laughing.
Big, handsome Uncle Harry could not look woebegone, and the two little girls laughed at his attempt.
"The barge is taking our party over to the 'Cleverton,' and I see you have the pony, Dorothy," said Uncle Harry. "Will you run a race with the barge?"
"Oh, yes, yes!" cried Dorothy, "and Romeo will come in ahead!"