"Perhaps we had better get dressed now, and be ready for breakfast when it comes, but of course we mustn't disturb father, even though it is Christmas morning," said Alice with a smile, and she began to make haste with her toilet.
"Have you ever noticed what a long wait people have for breakfast on Christmas morning, Auntee?"
"That's because some people rise at such unearthly hours," answered Alice with a laugh, "but run along now, Alsie, and let's see which will be dressed first."
An hour later found the family grouped around the breakfast table. Each member had been in to the sick-room and given his greeting to the dear invalid, who had appeared so bright and cheerful that he seemed almost like his old merry self. When Alsie was recounting to him all the pretty things she had found in her stocking, he said, teasingly, "Now don't get into mine, too—I'm going to wait until Uncle Dick and his little tots come before I take my allotted hour in the library."
By ten o'clock Uncle Dick's family had arrived, and the big, stalwart son went into the sick-room to assist the pale, weak father into the library. A pang came to the heart of the former as he thought of what a contrast was this Christmas with the one of a year before, when the now wasted form had been so vigorous and handsome. A feeling of misgiving came as to what the next Christmas would bring to them.
When the chair was rolled into the library, what a sight was displayed to the wondering eyes of the astonished old gentleman!
The room was almost transformed in appearance with the elaborate decorations, and, added to this feast for the eyes, was the perfume of fresh flowers, for several boxes of roses and carnations had come in with Christmas greetings during the early hours of the morning.
Grandfather's breath was almost taken away. He looked at the eager faces gathered all round him, and said helplessly, "What does it mean? I don't exactly understand."
"It's your Christmas pie, grandfather, for we couldn't let the day go by without your having a taste. When you find all the good things that are in that pie I don't think you'll feel slighted, even if Aunt Bettie's mince pie is denied," exclaimed Alsie enthusiastically.