Early in the morning the children were aroused to prepare for their journey. They were all in high spirits, and thought dressing and breakfasting by candle-light the “greatest fun in the world;” though it is doubtful if they would have held to their opinion had the practice been continued permanently.
“Nobody wants breakfast so early,” Nettie said, as she laughed and talked in excitement.
“I’m sure nobody wants to lunch on the train,” shouted Eric, across the hall.
“The train, indeed! Why, we shall be aboard the steamer at noon. I like to travel on these European steamers,” Nettie called back.
“I am so glad we are all to travel together to the Hague,” said Adele’s sweet voice. “How quickly you dress, Nettie! But where can my other boot be?”
“I’m sure I don’t know; let’s look for it. Here ’tis.”
“No; that’s your own.”
“Sure enough; and I’ve been all this time doing up yours. Shouldn’t wonder if we did miss the train. And it’s in a knot, and I can’t untie it. Mauma, mauma, bring another light here, quick! and you’d better hurry, Adele.”
“Nettie, did you mean the train was in a knot?” called Herbert.
“No, it’s not,” said Nettie, quickly; and then they all laughed merrily. For, though Nettie’s remark was not particularly brilliant, there was enough in it to amuse the happy, excited hearts around her.