“But we must have ever-greens,” insisted Ambrose, “it’s to make a triumphant arch for father and mother.”
But Andrew was firm. They might make as many triumphant arches as they liked after master was at home, but he couldn’t cut ever-greens without orders.
“It wouldn’t be a bit of use afterwards,” said David. “People never have triumphant arches after they get back. We must have some now.”
“Not from me, Master David,” was Andrew’s answer, and he left the children in a downcast group and went on his way. Poor Nancy was almost in tears. It was very hard to have her plan so suddenly destroyed, but she knew that Andrew was not to be persuaded to change his mind.
“It’s a shame!” she exclaimed with heated cheeks. “I’m sure mother and father would like us to have them. I shall go and ask Miss Grey.”
She ran off towards the house, and Pennie followed more slowly. The boys, easily consoled by remembering that there was still the museum, gave up the triumphant arch without any more effort, and went about their own affairs.
Nancy soon came back.
“Well?” said Pennie inquiringly.
“Miss Grey’s just as bad as Andrew,” said Nancy moodily. “She says she couldn’t give us leave to have ever-greens in father’s absence.”
“Why, then, we must give it up,” said Pennie soothingly, “and think of something else.”