That is the end of the Whitey story, and there is Papa coming to join us, and Hugh follows with the table.
“Oh, isn’t this a regular Pic-Nic,” said the children, as they gathered around the little table which Celia had taken pains should be covered with her daintiest dishes.
“And Auntie dear,” said thoughtful Daisy, “I don’t think we can ever thank you enough for giving us such a lovely time. I don’t think any children ever had so much pleasure.”
“I wish,” said little Jack, with mouth full, as usual, “I wish there was out of doors in New York ’cept the Park.”
In spite of the parting so near, that was a pleasant meal. The old apple tree spread its branches protectingly over the young heads, choice flowers perfumed the air about them, and Robins, Locusts and Crickets formed an Orchestra to supply sweet music.
Papa’s watch at last told the parting near, and very sad were the little faces that Aunt Emma saw looking back from the open carriage, at the Funny House on Funny Street.
“God bless and keep my darlings,” the old Auntie murmured, “and bring us all to meet one day in that bright land where partings are unknown.”
Then the kind old Aunt, taking Charlie Leonard with her, went to see a poor sick girl, and whilst she spoke words of comfort to the sufferer, the ache left her own heart, and all was peace and joy within.