IN STEPPED THE THREE.
“And I,” said the second, who wore the spectacles, “am commonly called Sister Pansy.”
“And I,” added the third, who carried the bag, “am styled Sister Satchel.”
“Your mother and father must have been a good-looking couple,” said Gredel, smiling.
“They were born handsome,” quoth Trot, rearing her head proudly, “and they grew handsomer.”
“How came they to grow handsomer?” asked Peterkin, who had been standing in a corner.
“Because they were brisk and hurried about,” replied Pansy, “and never found the day too long. But pray, sir, who are you?”
“I am Peterkin, son of Gredel.”
“And may I ask what you do?” inquired Trot.
“Watch the goats.”