“Do you make the seed bed in just the same way as for any other seeds?” asked Mary Frances.
“Yes, taking great pains to have it finely pulverized. Well, let’s get to work! Father, please tell us what you think is a good place.”
After pointing out a good sunny place, his father helped Billy make the seed bed, and the girls sowed the seed.
“Cover the tiny seeds with just a thin layer of soil,” directed Billy, “but put a heavier cover on the larger ones. The rule is to cover a seed with three times its diameter.”
“Next we press them down firmly,” said Mary Frances, “and sprinkle with water very gently.”
“Good!” her father praised her. “What a fine little gardener you are! By the way, when do we see that play house garden of yours, dear?”
“Oh, Father, that’s to be another surprise!” Mary Frances answered. “You’re to be invited to a Garden Party—you and Mother, and other people, too.”
“Won’t that be fine! I hope you will not forget Aunt Maria,” her father smiled.
“That’s a part of the secret, Father; please, please don’t guess any more! And please don’t tell Mother, will you?” Mary Frances begged anxiously.
“Indeed, I shall not, little girl,” he answered. “I think it is a delightful idea.”