Bobichel now jumped from the wagon. Girdel hurried from the house and cordially exclaimed:
"Welcome, children; you have remained out long and are not hungry, are you?"
"I could eat pebblestones," replied Bobichel, laughing. "Ah, there is Schwan too. Well, old boy, how have you been getting along?"
While the host and the clown were holding a conversation, Girdel went to the wagon and stretched out his arms.
"Jump, daughter," he laughingly said.
Caillette did not hesitate long; she rose on her pretty toes and swung herself over the edge of the wagon into her father's arms. The latter kissed her heartily on both cheeks, and then placed her on the ground. He then glanced around, and anxiously asked:
"Where is Fanfaro?"
"Here, Papa Firejaws," came cheerfully from the interior of the wagon, and at the same moment a dark head appeared in sight above a large box. The head was followed by a beautifully formed body, and placing his hand lightly on the edge of the wagon, Fanfaro swung gracefully to the ground.
"Madcap, can't you stop turning?" scolded Girdel, laughingly; "go into the house and get your breakfast!"