“How can you tell so soon?” Sarah objected.
Blue Bonnet shrugged. “Oh, because—and anyhow, even if I did, I wouldn’t.”
“Would you mind saying that over again?” Sarah looked bewildered.
“News!” Debby joined them. “The pond’s frozen over! You skate, Blue Bonnet?”
“Alec’s going to teach me. I’ve got news, too—Grandmother’s going to give me a Christmas party!”
There was a little chorus of excited approval.
“Well, Honey!” It seemed to Uncle Cliff as if he had been gone three months rather than nearly three weeks. “Box all ready?”
“Except a few last things, which we’re going to get together.” Blue Bonnet nestled closely to him, under the big buffalo robe. “Maybe I haven’t done some tall rustling lately! I haven’t a reputation ’round these parts for getting there before the train starts, but I’ve done it this time! And just wait till you see what I’ve got for Uncle Joe! Aunt Lucinda suggested it—when it comes to Christmasing, Aunt Lucinda’s a jim-dandy. And if Carita Adeline Judson doesn’t open her eyes!”
“Call a halt, Honey!” Mr. Ashe implored, laughingly. “Looks like you were trying to keep time with those sleigh-bells!”