"Come--" she said, turning abruptly, "lunch is waiting, and I feel sure
you must be ready for it, after the morning hours of exploration."
CHAPTER IV
PLANS FOR THE PARTY
Luncheon over, the ponies were brought out from the stables, and as Don
expressed it, they seemed ready-made for their visit.
The boys were overjoyed as they mounted and galloped away down the long
avenue for a ride; the girls at first being satisfied with a trot around
the grounds on "Brownie's" broad back.
After the delightful day had gone at last, tired but happy they gathered
around Aunt Janice as she sat knitting.
"You must have a fortune growing around the old place on all of those
fine forest trees!" Harry commented.
Aunt Janice looked toward the speaker quickly.
"Well, I believe it is one of the finest in this part of the country; you
may all take a basket of lunch and go out exploring there, if you like,
soon--all varieties of lovely ferns grow about in damp places and you can
bring some back to help make the old place look green and pretty inside,
as well as on the outside, for we must get ready for a party."
"A party--a party--" chorused several voices at once.
"I see the plan meets with approval; all right then; I'll have a good
lunch put up and you may spend the day, and wander around to your
heart's content!"
"How delightful!--and shall we play games, too?"
Alice had come up close to Aunt Janice and placed one small hand in hers.
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