the letter ran as follows:--

"JULY 1, 1875.

"DEAR OLD BROTHER,--I've been recalling a fortnight's experience
WE once had of courtship in a boarding-house, and I've determined
to cut short our visit here, hurry home, and give you and Alice a
chance or two to see each other in parlors where there won't be a
likelihood of the dozen or two interruptions you must suffer each
evening now. Tom agrees with me, like the obedient old darling
that he is; so please have the carriage at Hillcrest station for
us at 11:40 Friday morning. Invite Alice and her mother for me to
dine with us Sunday,--we'll bring them home from church with us.

"Lovingly, your sister, HELEN.

"P. S. Of course you'll have my darlings in the carriage to
receive me.

"P. P. S. WOULD it annoy you to move into the best guest-chamber?
--I can't bear to sleep where I can't have THEM within reach."

Friday morning they intended to arrive,--blessings on their
thoughtful hearts!--and THIS was Friday. I hurried into the boys'
room, and shouted:--

"Toddie! Budge! who do you think is coming to see you this
morning?"

"Who?" asked Budge.