They played all the regulation Hallowe’en games. “Thread the Needle,” “Blow the Candle,” and all the well-known ones.
Then Mrs. Rawlins brought in a plate, which she set on the table. “This,” said she, “is a test to see who of you will be married this year. Now, who will try first?”
The girls hung back, and the boys urged them forward. At last, the Fairy flitted up to make the first test.
On the plate was a mound of flour, tightly pressed into shape. Mrs. Rawlins explained the test. “You see,” she said, “the rule is, to fill a bowl with flour, and drop a ring into it. Then press the flour down so tightly, that it will keep its shape when turned out on a plate. Each of you must cut out a slice, and any one who finds the ring will be married this year.”
“Sure?” asked Lollie Henry, laughing.
“Yes, sure,” asserted Mrs. Rawlins, gravely. “Come, Fairy, after I read the charm, cut your slice. Cut it like a pie, and wherever you choose.”
Then Mrs. Rawlins read the charm:
“Little ring within the flour,
Waiting for this witching hour,
Tell me where it is you hide —