"As you see, Cousin Fanny. Paul gave me the invitation, with my little wife's love; and how could I decline?"
"I am sure it is very good of you to come and help entertain; but I am afraid it will be a sad bore. Miss Minnie Wall, the oldest of the young ladies, is but just fourteen; and Bessie Rider, the youngest, is not yet six."
"But I came to visit my little wife," persisted Mr. Burroughs, laughing gayly.
"Here she is, then, with all the rest behind her;" and, as the little hostess caught sight of her new guest, she flew toward him, crying,—
"Oh, my little wife has come!—my little, wife!"
Every one laughed, except the young man thus oddly addressed, who gravely extended his hand, saying,—
"Miss 'Toinette, allow me to wish you many happy returns of this fortunate day."
'Toinette looked at him a moment in surprise, then, glancing at the other guests, said innocently,—
"I guess you talk that way because the girls are here; but I like the way you are always, best."
This time Tom laughed as loud as the rest, and, catching the child in his arms, kissed her a dozen times, saying,—