“O they expected it—that was what they came for. People used to go about in that way to the rich houses at Christmas time, to get a little money by amusing the gentlefolks.”
“I s’pose they were very much amused,” said Carl with a little sigh.
“Very much—especially Edric. And after they were gone he came and stood before the great fire and thought it all over, smiling to himself with pleasure.
“‘Edric,’ said my lady, ‘it is time for you to go to bed.’
“‘Yes grandmother—but I’m afraid I can’t go to sleep.’
“‘Why not?’ said Squire Darlington. ‘What are you smiling at?’
“‘O we’ve had such a splendid time, grandfather!—the people were dressed so finely—and didn’t Mince Pye fight well? and wasn’t the Doctor queer! And I’m sure my stocking will be as full as anything.’
“Squire Darlington drew the boy towards him, and seated him on his knee while he spoke thus; and passing his hand caressingly over the young joyous head, and smoothing down the brown hair that was parted—child fashion—over the middle of the forehead, and came curling down upon the lace frill, he looked into Edric’s face with a world of pleasure and sympathy.
“‘And so you’ve enjoyed the evening, dear boy?’ he said.
“‘O yes! grandfather—so much! I’m sure Christmas is the very happiest time of the whole year!’