The major relieved the situation by saying:
“Now, Mistress Mollie, we are ready to be surprised.”
“Come on,” said Stephen, taking Jimmie by the arm, and as they stood aside, he whispered into his ear: “Keep it dark about the tramps. Uncle will explain.”
“The surprise is this,” explained Mollie, detaining the young people in the hall. “Why not give our masquerade to-night?”
“This is as good a time as any other,” agreed Martin.
“Oh, you children!” exclaimed Stephen.
“Don’t be a wet blanket, Stephen,” said Martin.
“Oh, I simply thought perhaps the girls might be tired or something,” replied Stephen. “We’ll all dress up if you like.”
“What fun!” cried Mollie. “José, you’re to be a pirate, remember.”
“I think José would make a good highwayman,” observed Bab, “with a knife in his belt and a slouch hat on.” She had no sooner spoken than she repented her words.