“I declare I never saw such a change in any creature. I left her a year ago, a dingy little chimney swallow. I come back, and find her a brilliant oriole. Indeed, I didn’t know her at first, and I shouldn’t have known her at all, but for her eyes and forehead; they will never change. I say, father, by the way, talking of her forehead, look at it. If there be any truth in phrenology she must have intellect.”
“I don’t think it requires an appeal to phrenology to prove that the child has rare intelligence,” said the chief justice.
“Intellect is a snare as well as beauty; goodness is the quality most to be desired,” remarked Mrs. Lyon, gravely. Then, speaking to the child, she added:
“Now run away into the garden and play for half an hour or so. This clear, frosty air outside is good for little girls.”
Mr. Alexander put his pet down, and then the little creature ran out of the room.
“I must beg you both, my husband and son, not to say such things as you have been saying in the child’s presence again. I have too real a regard for her to wish to have her spoiled.”
“All right, mother; I wouldn’t do anything to spoil her for the world,” said Mr. Alexander.
And the chief justice also acquiesced, for the old lady was queen-regnant in her own family kingdom.
An hour later General Lyon and Miss Anna arrived. And at night Mr. Richard made his appearance. And with the coming of Dick the holidays really commenced.
On Christmas morning a great many presents were interchanged. And while rich jewelry, furs, shawls, dresses, laces, slippers, caps, gowns and gloves were given and received, little Drusilla ran from one group to another, deeply interested and sincerely sympathizing in the pleasure and satisfaction of her friends.