“I’ll be bound the children won’t object, but will be delighted with the gift of the pretty bunch of ribbons, whether they have, or have not, any patriotism in their make-up,” laughed Mr. Short.
“By the way, Captain, I met Riggs on the street as I came here, and he informed me that he would be present at the oration, reading of the Declaration, and so forth, and that he hoped the people would turn out ‘copiously.’ He’s rather original in the use of words.”
“So I have discovered,” was the captain’s quiet reply.
“Has he told you of his plans for improving his house?” asked Mr. Short, with a humorous look.
“Yes, and how he obtained his wealth in spite of entire lack of education.”
“It was a lucky find, and he’s one of the richest men of the town; but if he had education he would get twice the satisfaction out of his wealth that he does as it is; at least, I think so.”
“And I do not doubt that you are right,” assented Captain Raymond.
“Well, Miss Lulu, how many pounds of fire-crackers do you expect to set off to-day?” asked Mr. Short. “So patriotic a young lady will hardly be satisfied with less than two or three, I suppose.”
“Indeed, sir, I do not expect to fire one,” she returned gaily. “Papa has promised me something else in place of them; I don’t know yet what it is, but as he says I will enjoy it more I’m quite sure I shall.”
“Now, I shouldn’t wonder if I could guess what it is,” returned Mr. Short with a twinkle in his eye.