“I like the idea very much, so far as I understand it,” he said. “Who will volunteer to take part?”
“Zoe and I may be counted on,” said Edward, with a smiling glance at his young wife.
“And Herbert and I,” added Harold. “We’ve had some experience, and it’s a sort of thing we enjoy.”
“Yes, and we’ll help with the charades and any thing else, if we’re wanted,” said Herbert.
But it was growing late, so further arrangements were deferred to the next day, and the company presently separated for the night. The Lelands and Edward and Zoe remained in the house; the rest departed to their homes.
“Why, Gracie; here before me, though you’re the sick one!” exclaimed Lulu, as, early the next morning, she entered the little sitting-room they shared between them and found her sister lying on the sofa ready dressed for the day.
“Yes,” Grace said, “I was so tired of bed, and Agnes said she would help me dress before mamma’s bell should ring. So I let her; but I’m tired and have to lie down again a little bit.”
“Yes; you’re not nearly strong enough to sit up all day yet,” returned Lulu, stooping over her to give her a kiss. “But you’ve been crying, haven’t you? your eyes look like it.”
Grace nodded, hastily brushing away a tear.
“Why, what’s the matter?” asked Lulu, in surprise. “I can’t think of any thing to make you cry, unless it’s pain; are you in pain, dear?”