"Perhaps it can be arranged then," the old lady clasped her hands together—"you could have all of the advantages of the near-by city, and yet we could have a merry time out here in the old homestead, if only Gwen—" she paused, suddenly remembering, and cut short the words unuttered.
"Come—" she said, turning abruptly, "lunch is waiting, and I feel sure you must be ready for it, after the morning hours of exploration."
CHAPTER IV
PLANS FOR THE PARTY
Luncheon over, the ponies were brought out from the stables, and as Don expressed it, they seemed ready-made for their visit.
The boys were overjoyed as they mounted and galloped away down the long avenue for a ride; the girls at first being satisfied with a trot around the grounds on "Brownie's" broad back.
After the delightful day had gone at last, tired but happy they gathered around Aunt Janice as she sat knitting.
"You must have a fortune growing around the old place on all of those fine forest trees!" Harry commented.
Aunt Janice looked toward the speaker quickly.
"Well, I believe it is one of the finest in this part of the country; you may all take a basket of lunch and go out exploring there, if you like, soon—all varieties of lovely ferns grow about in damp places and you can bring some back to help make the old place look green and pretty inside, as well as on the outside, for we must get ready for a party."