"It isn't a story, Nurse; it's as true as true, so there! I keep my harp in my pocket."
"I know what he means," laughed little Marcia, who was wonderfully recovering her spirits. "It's a penny Jew's harp."
"Clever girl!" said Rupert. "That's just what it is."
At this moment a resounding peal echoed through the house, and soon after, a cheery voice was heard in the hall below.
The children listened, then looked at one another excitedly.
"Surely it isn't—" begun Kenneth.
"Yes, it is," cried Rupert, flinging wide open the nursery door. "It's Uncle Phil home from South Africa. Hurrah! Hurrah!"
[CHAPTER IV]
CINDERELLA'S FAIRY GODMOTHER
HELTER-SKELTER down the stairs ran the three elder Snowdens, Marcia following in their rear, tightly clasping Ella's hand.