When this song was finished they started a game of Puss in the Corner, and they were just in the midst of it when the great Swiss cow-bell rang, inviting the guests to luncheon. Then the children were formed into line with mistress and Burt at the head, and off they marched toward the dining-room to the tune of “The Stars and Stripes Forever.”
Several ladies assisted mistress with serving. The table was decorated with daffodils, and indeed daffodils were conspicuous all over the house. At each plate stood a little red basket filled with candy to take home.
When my kittens were all fast asleep I too went to the dining-room, and those happy faces were indeed a lovely sight. The children were just having their ice cream and cake, and one of the ladies was playing a soft, sweet air on the piano.
“This table-cloth is cleaner than ours,” said a voice as I entered, and at this the ladies all smiled at each other.
“This is starshine candy,” said Marjory.
“No, it’s moonshine drops,” said Arline.
The fact is, it was sunshine chips, as I heard mistress tell Bettie when the groceries came.
“How old is your little brother?” said Lillian to Doris.
“He is three months and six years,” said Doris.
“My little brother came on the 4th of July,” said Frances. “Papa bought him instead of fireworks.”