rom a
German cracker motto.

Abiram received a stick of candy as his gift, and was as much pleased,
apparently, as the rest of the party.

Many of the presents were accompanied by little verses or lines of
doggerel, and the reading of these caused much merriment and laughter.

After the presentations, supper was served, and here Mrs. Warner had
provided her part of the surprise.

Not even those staying in the house knew of their hostess' plans, and
when they all trooped out to the dining-room, a real Christmas feast
awaited them.

The long table was decorated with red ribbons and holly, and red candles
with red paper shades. Christmas bells hung above the table, and at each
plate were appropriate souvenirs. In the centre of the table was a tiny
Christmas tree with lighted candles, a miniature copy of the one they had
just left.

Even the viands partook of the Christmas character, and from roast turkey
to plum pudding no detail was spared to make it a true Christmas feast.

The young people did full justice to Mrs. Warner's hospitality, and
warmly appreciated the kind thoughtfulness which had made the supper so
attractive in every way.

Then they adjourned to the parlour for informal dancing, and wound up the
party with an old-fashioned Virginia reel, which was led by Mr. and Mrs.
Warner.

Mr. Warner was a most genial host and his merry quips and repartee kept
the young people laughing gaily.

When at last the guests departed, it was with assurances that they had
never had such a delightful Christmas party, even in midwinter, and had
never had such a delightful Fourth of July party, even in midsummer.

CHAPTER XVIII

AT SANDY COVE

When the day came for Patty and Elise to leave Pine Branches, everyone
concerned was truly sorry. Elise had long been a favourite with the
Warners, and they had grown to love Patty quite as well.

Roger was still there, and Mr. and Mrs. Farrington came for the young
people in their motor-car. They were returning from a most interesting
trip, which had extended as far as Portland. After hearing some accounts
of it, Patty felt sure that she would have enjoyed it; but then she had
also greatly enjoyed her visit at Pine Branches, and she felt sure that
it had been better for her physically than the exertion and excitement of
the motor-trip.

Besides this, the Farringtons assured her that there would be many other
opportunities for her to go touring with them, and they w