"No, that could not have excused me; because it is a father's duty to take every care of his child, whether she wishes it or not; and it is my settled purpose to do so henceforward," he said, returning her caress with great tenderness.
CHAPTER VIII.
The storm continued through the night but had ceased before the guests at Ion were astir; the ground was thickly carpeted with snow and clouds still obscured the sun, but there was no wind and the cold was not severe.
"Just the day for a snow fight," remarked Frank Dinsmore, as he and the other lads of the company stood grouped together on the veranda shortly after breakfast; "plenty of snow and in prime condition for making into balls."
"So it is," said Herbert Travilla, "and I believe I'm boy enough yet to enjoy a scrimmage in it."
"I too," said Harold. "Let's build a fort, divide ourselves into two armies, one besiege and the other defend it."
The proposition was received with enthusiasm and the work of erecting the snow fort begun at once.
Some of the girls wanted to help, but were told their part was to look on.
"I can do more than that," said Rosie, and darting into the house, she presently returned with a small flag. "Here, plant this on your ramparts, Harold," she said, "if you are to defend the fort."
"I don't know yet to which party I shall belong—besiegers or besieged—but I'm obliged for the flag and shall plant it as you advise," he said.