"Did you ever see such a crowd before in all your life!"
"And look at the flags and other decorations! Aren't they beautiful?"
"This time New York has outdone herself."
It was the day for the great parade of the returned soldiers, and New York City, especially in the vicinity of Fifth Avenue, was packed with dense crowds that filled miles of grandstands, windows, and other points of vantage, and also jammed the sidewalks and the side streets. It was a holiday for all, and everybody was going to make the most of it.
The Rovers had left their homes early to make their way to the seats they had obtained on one of the stands. With those who resided in the city were Grandfather Rover and also Aunt Martha and Uncle Randolph, who had come down the day previous from Valley Brook Farm.
"This is the greatest day of my life," said Grandfather Rover, his eyes glistening with pleasure. "To think that my boys have all fought for our country and come back from the war safely."
"Yes, and to think one of them has won a medal—not but what the others have been equally brave," responded old Uncle Randolph.
"I hope they never have to go to another war—they or their sons either," murmured old Aunt Martha.
The girls had invited May and Ruth to come to New York to witness the parade. May had accepted the invitation, but Ruth had sent word the doctor did not think a trip advisable at this time, her eyes being still in bad condition.
"It's too bad Ruth couldn't come," sighed Jack.