when I didn't mean to do it. Nurse says it was a most 'unfortunate
accident.' I asked her what an accident was. She says it's a thing that
happens when you don't expect it--a surprise, she called it. I'm sure
it was a dreadful surprise to me, and to Fritz, too; but I'll never play
ball in the hall again, _never_!"

A week later, and Sir Edward was in his study, absorbed in his books and
papers, when there was a knock at his door, and, to his astonishment,
his little niece walked in. This was so against all rules and
regulations that his voice was very stern as he said,--

"What is the meaning of this intrusion, Millicent? You know you are
never allowed to disturb me when here."

Milly did not answer for a moment. She walked up to her uncle, her small
lips tightly closed, and then, standing in front of him with clasped
hands, she said,--

"I've come to tell you some dreadful news."

Sir Edward pushed aside his papers, adjusted his glasses, and saw from
the pallor of the child's face and the scared expression in her eyes,
that it was no light matter that had made her venture into his presence
uncalled for.

"It's a dreadful surprise again," Milly continued, "but I told nurse I
must tell you at once. I--I felt so bad here," and her little hand was
laid pathetically on her chest.

"Well, what is it? Out with it, child! You are wasting my time," said