"Yes; but we did it to-day, in order that I might have to-morrow free
for the picnic. We all went to the city and had a very pleasant and
successful time."

"Shopping is apt to be very fatiguing work," said Grandma Elsie. "I see
Grace looks weary. Dear child, if you feel like retiring, do not let our
presence hinder you for a moment."

"Thank you, Grandma Elsie; but I don't like to miss a minute of your
call," returned Grace, exerting herself to speak in a lively tone.

"I'd like to tell about what we bought," said Ned, "but I suppose I must
not."

"Better wait till you have the articles here to show, my son," said his
father.

"Yes; we had to leave them to be marked; but Aunt Rosie will see them
some of these days," said the little fellow.

"And she is very willing to wait till the right time comes," Rosie said,
putting an arm about him and giving him a kiss; for he had gone to her
side.

"I'm afraid it will be a good while to wait," he returned. "Papa was so
kind, he gave us--Elsie and me--each ten dollars to do what we pleased
with. Lu and Gracie had a good deal more, 'cause they are older, you
know, and----"