“Yes; taking into consideration the extenuating circumstance of its being the first offense.”
“Thank you, sir. But I hope you don’t forbid me to try it on Mamma Vi, one of these times?” returned Max insinuatingly, and with another arch look and smile.
“No, I shall not, as I incline to the opinion that she would rather enjoy it,” laughed his father.
“Oh, Max, when will you do it?” cried Lulu. “Gracie and I will want to be there to see and hear it all, for you know it’s only once you can play the trick on any one person; at least if you try it again they’re very apt to think immediately that it’s you doing it.”
“I’ll take some time when you two girls are by,” said Max; “papa also. But perhaps,” with an inquiring glance at his father, “I’d better not try any more of it to-night.”
“No; it is time now for prayers,” the captain answered. “We will go in, and, Max, you may ring for the servants.”
They all repaired to the library, where Violet and the servants presently came also, and the short service was held.
At its conclusion, as the children were bidding good-night, Violet noticed a large doll sitting in state in its own tiny chair. She picked it up, saying, “Ah, Elsie has forgotten her favorite Fatima, and will probably be crying out for her before morning.”
Max’s eyes twinkled, and he sent a questioning, wishful glance in his father’s direction.
The captain smiled, and gave a nod of acquiescence.