114 MADGE’S MISTAKE.

Tiny says “seemed” advisedly, for Father's
countenance has suddenly changed, and as
he looks upon Freda it seems to grow darker
and darker.

Freda appears not to notice this, however,
and walks straight up to him for his kiss;
but Father does not offer to bestow it on her,
and after standing looking down at her a
minute, says:

“What possessed you to put on that ridi-
culous dress? I am going to a flower-garden,
and therefore do not wish to take one with
me. Go and take it off immediately, and
never let me see it again. You needn't
trouble to put on your bonnet again, as one
of your younger sisters will take your place.”

Poor Freda quits the room leoking rather
erest-fallen, but on the whole we are all
rather relieved that it has been no worse, for
we expected a regular storm.

The question now is—who will be the
chosen one?

“ Gip, of course,” I whisper to Tiny, and she
nods her acquiescence; but Father is not of