And Kenneth had his way.
A few minutes later the whole party made its way towards the nursery door. Kenneth, however, was the only one to enter.
"Cinderella," said he to the waiting Princess, for Kenneth was a few minutes behind his time, "just shut your eyes for a minute. Shut them tight, mind you!"
"Stupid!" grumbled Rupert. "That isn't in the charade."
But Kenneth insisted, and the little Princess obediently did as she was bid.
Then, motioning every one to be silent, Kenneth beckoned those outside the nursery to come in. He next gave the slipper into Mr. Russell's hand, his heart going pit-a-pat as he waited to see the issue of events.
An absolute stillness reigned, for here was something quite unexpected.
But for Kenneth's warning finger, Uncle Phil's arrival would have been greeted with shouts of delight; as it was, the boy's scheme was being carried out to perfection.
A very sweet little maid, indeed, looked "Cinderella," as she sat there with fast-closed eyes, waiting the coming of the Prince.
The roomy slipper was soon placed on the little foot, and at Kenneth's word of command the child opened her eyes.