"Yes, light in," added Uncle Dick, "and I'm here to help you, so we'll station ourselves around the fire and all assist you to enjoy it, slice by slice."
For a little while, however, it was only inspected, as Alice told the story of how the idea had come to little Alsie, and how all of them had assisted in working it out. Uncle Dick finally lifted off the top and a perfect network of narrow Christmas ribbons was disclosed.
"Each ribbon holds a dainty morsel," said Emily, as grandfather reached forth his hand to grasp one. The first "draw" was a fortunate one, for it proved to be a tender note of love and greeting from one of his most faithful and valued friends. The next brought forth Aunt Bettie's biscuit man, which looked so funny that every one burst into laughter. Then books and presents of many varieties followed. Every few minutes a card would be drawn out bearing a message from some dear relative or friend in a distant city or State. These tender reminders that so many of his friends were thinking of him with affection and sending him such cordial good wishes and hopes for recovery seemed to please Captain Gordon greatly.
As for the little "wifey"—she just sat at her husband's side and enjoyed the same measure of surprise and pleasure.
The package of receipted bills—gorgeously done up in Christmas style—was not forgotten, and brought forth the predicted satisfaction, even if there was considerable laughing also.
"Handle this with care," laughed Uncle Dick, as he gayly lifted out the tiny basket of eggs. "This is one slice of the pie at least that you can eat."
The lemon was pulled out in the course of time and proved not to be too sour for enjoyment. Alsie waited patiently for the envelope containing the "Reminiscence," and at last, when it came forth, she drew very close to grandfather to watch him open it. A puzzled look was on his face as he unfolded several yellow sheets of paper and recognized his own handwriting. He began to read a few lines, however, and a kindly smile spread over his countenance.
"I rather think this will interest somebody else, too. Suppose you read it aloud, Dick," remarked grandfather.
It was dated ten years before, and proved to be one of the vivid, interesting letters that none could write so well as Captain Gordon. It was written at the time of Alice's memorable year's trip abroad with some friends. Alsie was then a tiny girl of two years. The letter gave a detailed account of one of baby's escapades. It read as follows:
"The Old Kentucky Home.