“Huh!” said King, “squealing already! Chuck it, Mops. Come on outdoors and play tag.”
King’s suggestion proved a good one, for somehow a game of tag in the cool, bracing, outdoor air did them all good, and when at last it was time to dress for afternoon, and to receive Miss Larkin, it was a smiling group of children who awaited the coming guest.
CHAPTER III
THE LADY ARRIVES
It was about four o’clock when Miss Larkin arrived. Mindful of their newly-acquired dignity, the children awaited her in the drawing-room.
But when Sarah opened the hall door for the guest, a great commotion was heard.
“Yes,” said Miss Larkin’s high, shrill voice; “that trunk must be put in my bedroom; also these two suit-cases, and this hold-all. Oh, yes, and this travelling-bag. That other trunk may be put in your trunk-room if you have one—or attic, if you haven’t. I sha’n’t want it for several weeks yet. This basket, take to the kitchen—be careful with it—and these other things you may put anywhere for the present. Where are the babies? the dear babies?”
“Oh, King, she’s fairly moving in!” said Marjorie, in a whisper, as she saw James, the coachman, carrying a rocking-chair through the hall, and Sarah’s arms piled with wraps and bundles.
But encumbered as she was, Sarah managed to usher Miss Larkin into the drawing-room.
“Oh, here you are, little dears!” exclaimed the visitor, as she rushed rapidly from one to another, and, disregarding their polite curtseys, kissed each child heartily on the cheek. “My poor, orphaned babies! Don’t grieve for your parents. I will be to you all that they could be. Come to me with your little troubles. I will soothe and comfort you.”
“Yes, Miss Larkin,” said Marjorie, rather bewildered by this flood of conversation. “Mother said you would look after us. And now, would you like to go to your room, and have some tea sent up?”