I should like to have Gracie's company. Rather than do without it I
would even take Brother Levis' too," she added with a laugh and in a
little louder tone, turning a playful look upon him as she spoke.

His quick ear had caught the words.

"Can that be so, Sister Rosie," he said with assumed gravity. "Well,
unfortunately, I cannot go, as I have had no invitation. Also as I have
already declined the invitation for Grace, she cannot go. But I trust
she is not greatly afflicted by this state of affairs."

"No, indeed, papa," responded Grace with a contented little laugh. "It
is very far from being a trial to have to stay in this sweet home with
you and mamma, Elsie and Ned."

"I hardly supposed you would have time and inclination to go, Rosie,"
said Lucilla.

"Oh, yes, indeed!" laughed Rosie. "I think it advisable to seize all the
pleasures of single blessedness while I can."

"But married folks can go to picnics."

"Yes, so they can--to some of them; but this is only for the unmarried,
who have gotten it up."

"Did you have a hand in that?" asked Lucilla.

"No; it was the work of our young gentlemen friends--my brothers,
cousins, and some others."