“So do I,” said Polly, glad of some help. “Well, now, Phronsie, we’re going to play ‘Sally Waters.’”
“We’re going to play ‘Sally Waters,’” said Phronsie, very much pleased and scrambling over to add herself to the group.
“I’m not going to play ‘Sally Waters,’” declared Joel, in a bad temper, and wishing the minister’s boy would go home. “I’m going to nail on my box.”
“No, no, Joe.” Polly deserted the guest and ran over to whisper in his ear, “’Tisn’t polite when company is here.”
“Well, he can’t play anything,” said Joel, with a snort.
“Well, you must come over and help entertain him.” It was a long word, and Polly was very much pleased when she brought it out successfully, so she ran back crying joyfully, “Well, now, come on for Sally Waters,” as Joel dragged himself over.
“Well, children—” Mrs. Pepper’s black bonnet appeared over their heads. They had been making so much noise no one had heard her come in. “I’m glad to see you, Peletiah, and what a fine time you’re having!” And her tired face fairly beamed.
“Mamsie!” the little Peppers all shouted, all trying to get into her arms at once.
“Yes, Mother’s home,” said Mrs. Pepper, with a long sigh, and she dropped a kiss on each little face.
“Don’t push so, Joel,” said Polly, reprovingly, “and you’re mussing Mamsie’s bonnet.”