“As if I couldn't introduce Tom!” sniffed Percy importantly, quite delighted at Joel's social omissions. “I've done it ages ago.”
“All right,” said Joel, quite relieved. “Oh Phronsie, Sinbad doesn't want that ribbon on,” as Phronsie was making violent efforts to get it around the dog's neck.
“I would let her, Joel,” said Mother Fisher, “if I were you.”
“But he hates a ribbon,” said Joel in disgust, “and besides, he'll chew it up, Phronsie.”
“I don't want him to chew it up, Joel,” said Phronsie slowly, and pausing in her endeavors. And she looked very sober.
“I'll tell you, Phronsie.” Mrs. Fisher took the pink satin ribbon that Phronsie had bought with her own money. “Now, do you want mother to tie it on?”
“Do, Mamsie,” begged Phronsie, smoothing her gown in great satisfaction. And presently there was a nice little bow standing up on the back of Sinbad's neck; and as there didn't seem to be any ends to speak of, there was nothing to distract his attention from the responsibility of watching all the people.
“Oh, isn't he beautiful!” cried Phronsie in a transport, and hopping up and down to clap her hands. “Grandpapa dear, do look; and I've told Princey all about him, and given him a ribbon too, so he won't feel badly.”
And after this excitement had died down, Joel whirled around. “Tom's brought his banjo,” he announced.
“Oh!” exclaimed Polly.