"Let 'em wear somethin' more 'n a straw wreath and a piece o' calico then," remarked Miss Berry.
"But Aunt Love," suggested Page, "you must remember how clothing that brown skin is. I am sure you must admit it is an improving sight to see one of those heavy-eyed beauties sit cross-legged, and absently scratch one great toe while she sings."
"What are you all laughing about?" asked Hilda, coming out upon the piazza in the freshness of a light organdie gown.
"Your husband has been to the Midway," returned Miss Berry. "Don't be surprised at anything he may say or do; and I don't believe we'd better wait for Mr. and Mrs. Van Tassel any longer, for dinner was ready when I came out here."
"I don't understand Clover's staying so," remarked Mildred, leaving the hammock and trying not to speak severely.
"I go, I fly, to make myself presentable," said Page, slowly dragging himself up from his comfortable resting-place.
After dinner Mildred made an opportunity to address the housekeeper privately. "For pity's sake, Aunt Love, when you are going to speak of Jack and Clover as you did this evening, don't say Mr. and Mrs. Van Tassel."
"Why not?" asked Miss Lovina with exasperating unconsciousness.
"Why, it sounds so—so—absurdly married."
Miss Berry smiled. "What shall I say then?"