I supposed they were pretty certain of the tree, and would be surprised only by the nature of the gifts." "They will have a goodly supply of those," Violet said, with a pleased look, glancing in the direction of a table heaped with packages of various sizes and shapes.

"Do you know, boys, when Christmas times come round I always feel glad I married a man with children; it's such a dear delight to lay plans for their enjoyment and to carry them out." "Just like you, Vi," said Herbert, "and I like to hear you talk in that way; but you have your own two." "Yes; but even Elsie is hardly old enough yet to care very much for such things." The tree was now in place and the work of trimming it began.
"It's very good in you boys to come here and help me instead of joining in the fun they are doubtless having at the school-house," remarked Violet, as she handed a glittering fairy to Harold who was mounted upon a step-ladder alongside of the tree.

"There, I think that will look well perched on that topmost bough." "Our tastes agree," he said, fastening the fairy in the designated spot.
"Yes, I think Herbie and I are entitled to any amount of gratitude on your part, for the great self-denial we are practicing, and the wonderful exertions we shall put forth in carrying out your wishes and directions in regard to this difficult and irksome business." "And the fine phrases and well turned periods contained in the remarks bestowed upon your unsophisticated country sister," laughed Violet.
"Of course they must not be forgotten in the reckoning up of your causes for gratitude.

Ah, Vi, how my heart goes out in pity and sympathy for you when I reflect that you not only never have shared in the inestimable privileges and delights of college boy life, but are, in the very nature of things, forever debarred from participation in them!" "I entirely appreciate your feelings on the subject," she said, with mock gravity, "but would advise that for the present you forget them, and give your undivided attention to the business in hand.

That second fairy does not maintain a very graceful attitude." "True enough," he said, promptly altering its position.