"Does she? When'd she go?"
"Why, she has always lived there; ever since she was married."
"O, yes; and uncle Gustus was married, too; they was both married. Is that all?"
"And she thinks you and I are 'cute chicks, and wants us to go and see her."
"Well, course she does; I knew that before," said Fly, turning away with indifference; "I did go with mamma."
"O, but she means now, Topknot; this very Christmas. She said it in a letter."
"Does she truly?" said Fly, beginning to look pleased. "But it can't be a secrid, though," added she, next moment, sadly, "'cause we can't go, Hollis."
"But I really think we shall go, Topknot; that is, if you don't spoil the whole by telling."
"O, I cerdily won't tell!" said Fly, fluttering all over with a sense of importance, like a kitten with its first mouse.
The breakfast bell rang; and, with many a word of warning, Horace led his little sister into the dining-room.