Then, at last, Percy's grand mystery was divulged, and Beryl learned what had been the contents of the curious-looking packages which had excited her curiosity. They were cases of fireworks, the best that could be obtained, and such as none of the children at Egloshayle had ever seen. The wonder and delight of the young people surpassed all bounds when, under Percy's direction, the first rocket was shot into the air, and breaking, shed a glorious shower of many-coloured stars. Some of the little ones were rather frightened by the noise and glare; but they quickly forgot their fear when they saw the pretty stars, and stood holding out their little hands to catch them when they fell to earth. They were sorry to find that this was impossible. There was a large supply of rockets of various kinds, famous Catherine wheels, and other imposing illuminations. Percy had made a capital selection of fireworks, and had not miscalculated the pleasure their display would give.
It was a delightful surprise to Coral and Beryl, and they enjoyed the sight quite as much as their guests. The garden rang with joyous acclamations as one wonder succeeded another. Nor was this all. When the fireworks were burnt out, and in the dim light the children could scarcely see each other's faces, suddenly lights began to gleam here and there amongst the foliage, and it appeared that Andrew, in obedience to Percy's orders, had been fastening bright-coloured Chinese lanterns at short distances along the garden walks.
With these brightly burning, the garden looked like a scene from fairyland. The novel illumination was hailed with the greatest satisfaction by all, and the children thoroughly enjoyed their last merry romp on the lawn. Then, when they had refreshed themselves with a repast of milk and cakes, the guests began to take their leave. The elder ones withdrew with evident reluctance; but their tiny brothers and sisters were growing tired and sleepy, and it was already past the hour at which their mothers expected them to return.
So with hearty good-will, and some rough attempts at thanks, Beryl's little scholars and their friends wished her and Coral good-night, and went gladly home to tell their parents what a wonderful time they had had.
Beryl and Coral were left tired out with the fatigue and excitement of entertaining and enjoying, but very pleased with the success of their party. Nothing could have gone off better, as they declared again and again. Every one had been pleased. There was absolutely no cause for regret.
"Well, Beryl, my darling,"' said her father, putting his arm around her as they walked together to the house, "has your birthday party come up to your expectations? Have you enjoyed it as much as you thought you would have?"
"Oh yes, papa, as much, and more," exclaimed Beryl; "nothing could be more delightful. It has been the happiest day of my life. How good of Percy to think of those fireworks? And the lanterns too!—who thought of them?"
"It was all Master Percy's planning," said Mr. Hollys; "you must thank him for the illuminations."
Beryl felt as if she could not thank him properly. How much he had contributed to the enjoyment of her guests! And she had actually wished him away, thinking that he would spoil everything! What a change had come over her feelings towards Percy within the last few days!