"Won't it be lovely! and won't their eyes open! Gracious stars! What's this?"
A large box was being wheeled in, and Lewis Waycott came behind it with an amused smile on his face.
"Many happy returns," he said, as Toney flew to receive him. "I've brought you some flowers. I know you're particular about having the best." Two men were soon unpacking the box, and displayed a wealth of glorious blossoms, mostly exotics.
"Oh!" gasped Toney, "but—where did you get them?"
"I sent Graham for them to London. I thought your friends should see something new in the way of flowers!"
"That is awfully nice. I never thought of that. It will give them something to talk about, and I was just at my wits' end for more flowers; Aunt Dove doesn't like to denude her hot-houses, but oh, Mr. Waycott, just imagine, uncle went out very early and stole some! He did really, I saw him, but don't tell! and he sent them in as a present from Aunt Dove for my feast! I'm sure she knew nothing about it, so I mustn't thank her."
The two laughed heartily together, and then Lewis looked round at the transformed barn.
"Have you got my work marked out?"
"I should think so, but come round first and admire! Look at my birthday cake. It's all made of little cottages in sugar. It's my idea!"
"However is it to be cut?"