We'll go when the crackers begin." As the pulling of crackers was the signal for every child at the table to make as much noise as possible, it was not difficult to effect their retreat without exciting general attention.

Avery alone noted their departure and smiled at Jeanie's flushed face as the child nodded farewell to her over Piers' shoulder.
"You do carry me so beautifully," Jeanie confided to him as he mounted the stairs to the top of the house.

"I love the feel of your arms.

They are so strong and kind.

You're sure I'm not too heavy ?" "I could carry a dozen of you," said Piers.
They found the nursery brilliantly lighted and lavishly adorned with festoons of coloured paper.
"Aunt Avery and I did most of that," said Jeanie proudly.
Piers bore her round the room, admiring every detail, finally depositing her in a big arm-chair close to the tall screen that hid the Christmas Tree.