“I believe she will,” said Ruth, and then they both laughed.
“You needn’t think I’m curious,” said Patty; “I can easily wait until evening to see a picture of myself. I shall take it out of the frame anyway, and put some other picture in.”
When they reached Vernondale Kenneth went directly to his aunt’s and the others went to Mrs. Elliott’s.
The whole family rushed to the door to meet them, and there was a general hubbub of Christmas greetings.
The packages and bundles were whisked away by Frank into the parlour, whose doors were kept carefully closed until the time should come for the Christmas tree.
Marian took possession of Patty and held her by the hand as if afraid she would run away. “Oh, Patty,” she kept saying, “I’m so glad to see you again. Do stay a long time, won’t you?”
Ruth was by no means neglected, for the Elliotts were a large-hearted family, and dearly enjoyed giving pleasure to the stranger within their gates.
About half an hour after their arrival Mr. Fairfield looked at his watch, and declared that it was time for him to go down to the station to meet the Philadelphia train.
“Oh, is Nan coming?” exclaimed Patty, for this was a surprise to her.