"They turn it into Bedlam when I'm not here," said Nurse crossly.
"It was only because we saw you on the steps, Aunt Frances," said Freda breathlessly.
"We're so glad to see anybody," said Daffy, with emphasis; "we were feeling very dull."
Their aunt laughed.
"Well, I have brought you Edmund as a companion. He has been sent home from school because of an outbreak of scarlatina, and I'm shutting up my house, and going to join your mother in town. She told me to bring him along here. The country air will do him good."
"It's to be hoped that he is safe from infection," said Nurse grimly; "we don't want scarlatina brought here."
"Now, Nurse, do you think I should have brought him if the doctors had not assured me it would be safe? You'll take care of him, won't you, like a good soul, and I'll be everlastingly grateful to you. I know we've sprung upon you very suddenly, but we only decided to do it early this morning. Here is a note for you from Mrs. Harrington."
She took a seat in Nurse's rocking-chair, and pulled Bertie towards her as she spoke.
"Now, Baby Bertie, give me a kiss. How you've grown! Freda and Daffy, you haven't seen Edmund for three years. He comes just between the two of you, so you will be companions together. You mustn't get into scrapes, or I shall hear about it from Nurse."
Freda looked shyly at Edmund. He stood, legs well apart and hands in his pockets, and returned her gaze rather defiantly.