“We talk of a garden or lawn party, if the weather is fine; all the relatives to be invited, and perhaps a few intimate friends beside. Certainly our minister and his wife.”
“I don’t think I could suggest anything better,” the captain said.
“But you may be able to give some useful hints in regard to plans for the entertainment of the guests, and suitable gifts for mamma.”
“Possibly; and you must help me to decide upon mine.”
“I shall be only too glad,” she answered with a bright, pleased look.
“And we children may give something nice to Grandma Elsie too, mayn’t we, papa?” they asked, all three speaking at once.
“Most assuredly,” he replied, “the very nicest thing, or things, you can think of that will come within the limits of your financial ability.”
“Papa,” remarked Grace doubtfully, “I don’t believe I know exactly what that means.”
“You understand the meaning of ability, surely?” returned her father.
“Yes, sir; but that other word—fi—”