"It is a thing not to be forgotten. At the present time it is forbidden to launch them on the sea at the open ports, but in isolated regions they are still sent forth."
"It is all the most fascinating and charming feast that we have heard anything about," declared Mary Lee. "We must go over and tell mother and the rest about it. They will want to go to the Bon-ichi, of course."
"I will go with you," said Eleanor jumping up.
They had been sitting in the pretty garden near where a little fountain splashed softly over rocks and pebbles, washing the feet of slender aquatic plants and then trickling on to form a small pool in which a tiny island was visible. Nan would have followed the two girls, but as Mr. Harding said, "Please don't go," she sank back again into her seat. She would yield to the temptation this once. Jack would be in evidence that evening and she must then efface herself, so she would take these few golden moments for her very own.
"I want you to go with me to the Bon-ichi this evening," said Mr. Harding. "Will you?"
"Why, yes," replied Nan. "We are all going, aren't we?"
"But you will go with me, won't you?"
Nan laughed. "As if it were an opera or the theatre you were inviting me to, I suppose."
"Exactly." He spoke quite seriously and Nan, stealing a glance at him, saw that he looked very grave and earnest.
"Oh, very well, I will consider myself specially invited," she replied lightly, "though I don't see what special difference it will make."