Louise was simply crying—and little Josephine ran to comfort her.
"Hold on Kiddie—you haven't opened yours," said Uncle Harry; and they all eagerly waited while the child carefully opened her envelope with a clean knife, and read out solemnly and slowly, "For my darling Grand-child Josephine, to be spent by herself, for herself, with Mama's advice and assistance; and in particular to provide for her party!"
She turned over the stiff little piece of paper—hardly understanding.
"It's a check, dear," said Papa. "It's the same as money. Parties cost money, and Grandma has made you a Christmas present of your party."
The little girl's eyes grew big with joy.
"Can I?—Is there really—a party?"
"There is really a party—for my little daughter, this afternoon at four!"
"O where is Grandma!" cried the child—"I want to hug her!"
They all rose up hurriedly, but Sarah came forward from her scant pretense of retirement, with another note for Dr. Grey.
"I was to give you this last of all," she said, with an air of one fulfilling grave diplomatic responsibility.