This appeared to her decidedly the most dignified course. She would go to aunt Eastman's, and she would not be in the least haste about coming back again. She would teach her sisters, especially Prudy, that it is best to be hospitable towards one's friends when they have been away on a long journey. Her anger may seem very absurd; but you must remember, little friends, that Dotty Dimple had now become a travelled young lady; she had seen the world, and her self-esteem had grown every day she had been away. Her heart was all aglow with love towards the dear ones at home, and it was very chilling to find the door locked in her face. She did not stop to reflect that no unkindness had been intended. As they drove to aunt Eastman's, her father observed that her bright little face was very downcast, but supposed her sadness arose from the disappointment. There are depths of foolishness in children's hearts which even their parents cannot fathom. Strange to say, neither Mr. Parlin nor Dotty had thought that the family might be visiting at Mr. Eastman's; but such was the case. It was Johnny's birthday, and his father had sent the carriage into the city that morning for Mrs. Parlin, grandma Read, and the children. As for Norah, Dotty was right with regard to her; she _had_ walked out to the Cape to see the auburn-haired Bridget. "I'm glad Johnny was born to-day instead of to-morrow," said Prudy, "for to-morrow we wouldn't go out of the house for anything, auntie." "I can seem to see cousin Dimple," said Percy; "she'll carry her head higher than ever." Prudy cast upon the youth as strong a look of disapproval as her gentle face could express. "Percy, you mustn't talk so about Dotty. She is my sister. She isn't so very proud; but if I was as handsome as she is, I should be proud too." "O, no; she is very meek--Dimple is; just like a little lamb. Don't you remember that verse she used to repeat?-- 'But, chillens, you should never let Your naughty _ankles_ rise; Your little hands were never made To tear each uzzer's eyes--out.'" "If she's cross, it's because you and Johnny tease her so," said Prudy. "I think it's a shame." Percy only laughed. He and Prudy were sitting in the doorway, arranging bouquets for the dinner-table. Susy joined them, bearing in her hands some dahlias and tuberoses. "Why, Prudy," said she, "what makes your face all aflame?" "She has been fighting for your little dove of a sister," replied Percy; "the one that went West to finish her education." This speech only deepened the color in Prudy's face, though she tried hard to subdue her anger, and closed her lips with the firm resolve not to open them again till she could speak pleasantly. "Look!" exclaimed Percy; "there's a carriage turning the corner. Why, it's Dimple herself and uncle Edward!" "It can't be!" "It is!" Both little girls ran to the gate. "O, father! O, Dotty! Why, when did you get home?"