He had a new suit too, and the broad sailor collar on it was embroidered with emblems and stars.
Beppi was delighted, and Lucia helped him on with it as he danced and hopped, first on one foot and then to the other.
"I'm a sailor," he announced, "a real sailor! See the bands on my arm."
"Fickle one," Lucia protested as she tied the flaring red tie, with loving fingers, "I thought you were going to be a soldier like our Captain."
Beppi thrust his small hands in his trouser pockets.
"I am when I grow up," he replied seriously, "but I can be a sailor in the meantime, can't I?"
"Yes, of course," Lucia agreed, "and now put on your shoes, dear, it must be late, and it would never do to keep the Captain waiting."
"Go and dress yourself then," Nana said, "and don't make yourself look too gay, it is not seemly."
Lucia tossed her head and laughed.
"Ah, but I will, my new bodice is so beautiful; all bright flowers, and my skirt is blue—I know the Captain will like it—and we are going to the South where all the girls wear bright colors—I expect my dress will look very somber."