“I can’t talk when there’s nobody by to help me,” was the tee-tee’s next remark.
“And Cousin Ronald is helping you now, isn’t he?” asked Ned.
“Yes; and he’s good help.”
Elsie had Tiny on her shoulder, and she put in her word now:
“I think it’s my turn to talk a little. I’m glad my little mistress has come home, though I’ve had a good time on the yacht and here with these good folks.”
“I’m glad you have had a good time,” laughed Elsie, “and I promise you shall have a fine time at Woodburn, my home, where I’ll take you presently.”
“Will you let me run about on the porches and the grass and climb the trees?”
“Yes, indeed, as much as you like, if you won’t run away from your home,” answered Elsie, hugging and stroking her pet.
“Now, if aunts, uncles and cousins will step aside for a moment, her grandfather would like to take a peep at baby,” said Captain Raymond, coming up behind the group of children.
They all hastily stepped aside and he leaned over the babe and chirruped to it. It looked up into his face and laughed, as if it knew and cared for him.