But I didn't know it, and I came running downstairs, ending with a little bounce for the last step.

And there, right in front of me in the hall was--_Father_.
I guess he was as much surprised as I was.

Anyhow, he acted so.

He just stood stock-still and stared, his face turning all kinds of colors.
"You ?" he gasped, just above his breath.

Then suddenly he seemed to remember.