The fireman had been in, and now a cheerful wood fire was dancing in the fireplace. They drew the table close to the hearth, for there was a chill in the air as soon as the sun went down, and settled themselves for card playing.
At about eleven o’clock, Miss Ashton, who had been watching the game, suggested counting up the scores.
“We bought some prizes,” she announced, “and they will now be awarded.”
She had taken the opportunity, while the young people were occupied, to wrap and label the articles which she now laid before each one.
“You had the highest score, Jim,” said Nancy, “so you open yours first.”
He slowly untied a box, and from it drew forth a toy automobile, while the girls exclaimed at its appropriateness.
“It winds up and runs, I think,” said Nancy, examining it closely.
“Take it right away from her,” said Martha. “If she gets fussing with a mechanical toy, it’s good night to everything else.”
Jim put his big hand over it, and Nancy surrendered the toy without protest.
“Now yours, Nan,” said Jim.