That was
the happiest thought! It was something not too unfamiliar; the one
joyful thing of which they had experience meeting them here to
smooth over the first introduction to a new world. Ida knew it well,
the effect of that organ; had it not lightened her heart many and
many a time in the by-gone darkness? Two of the girls had caught
each other by the waist at the first sounds. Might they? Would "the
lady" like it?
Miss Hurst had come out as soon as the music began, and Ida ran to
talk with her. There was whispering between them, and pointing to
one and another of the children, and then the governess, with a
pleased face, disappeared again. She was away some time, but on her
return two of the children were called into the house. Bare-footed
they went in, but came forth again with shoes and stockings on,
hardly able to comprehend what had happened to them. Then were
summoned those who had nothing on their heads, and to each of these
a straw hat was given, a less wonderful possession than the shoes
and stockings, but a source of gladness and pride.
In the meantime, however, marvels had accumulated on the lawn.
Whilst yet the organ was playing, there appeared two men, one of
them carrying a big drum, the other hidden under a Punch and Judy
show.
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