"I wish," Alice broke into the silence, "that we might all stay here forever!"
The tiny bright-eyed old lady, her loving heart ashine in her face, looked into the eyes of all of the happy group.
"I'm sure that will be the most joyful way for us to spend the years; there is room and love in abundance for all; let's share them in the old castle together."
The Merediths joined hands in delight at the suggestion. "A home with dear Aunt Janice! How delightful!" Nora voiced in words the thoughts they all would utter—"Tomorrow we must go into the forest and tell Marty and Jerry the wonderful news."
"And bring back the ferns and vines for the party!"
Alice and Beth were skipping around in excitement, that the grown-ups felt, but expressed in a quieter way.
"Isn't it fine that you will be here for the party?" Janey was looking into her father's face as she spoke, softly—"Aunt Janice will be glad for us to show you around."
The old lady smiled her assent; but just then did not remind Janey of the years he had spent around the old place.
"Even Aunt Janice hasn't met Jerry and Marty," Beth said—"but you will both love them."
"I'm sure we shall."