"Well, of all things!" he exclaimed, as his eyes rested on the sugared sweetmeat. Then, as he caught sight of the inscription, he added, recognizing the writing: "Buttons, I know it was your diffidence in company that prevented you giving this to Grace. So permit me to do so for you.
"You see, I know both their characteristics and sentiments, Bronson," added their tormentor, as he set the candy bear, with its banner, beside Grace's plate.
Merrily the others laughed, while the boy and girl most concerned blushed furiously.
"Just you wait, Cotton-Top," growled Buttons. But the threat was accepted as the jest it was meant to be.
Healthy young people all, the evident relish with which they ate bore eloquent testimony to the savoriness of Mrs. Markham's cooking.
"Now, go into the other room and amuse yourselves," said the happy woman, when the meal was finished. But the young people refused, declaring they would wash and wipe the dishes, which they did, despite Mrs. Markham's protest.
With games, singing and dancing, the evening quickly passed and, all too soon, the clock struck ten.
"Oh, dear, it seems as though I'd only just come," sighed Margie.
"Never mind, there'll be other nights," laughed Sandow.