All in a garden fair; the simple story of three boys ... - University Library

ALL LX A GARDEN FAIR. 269
words. Claire did not appear. Could it be
that tliey were going to liave the banquet with-
out her? As for the young men, Will and
Allen stood together, Allen with one hand on
Will's shoulder, as if for support. Olinthus
stood apart from the others, wearing a smile of
assurance which now and then gave place to a
look of anxiety. lie was dressed with great
splendour, wore all his rings and chains, and
had the shiniest of hats.
Just when the constraint and the silence
became painful there appeared in the porch a
little serving maid, w'itli a white cap and a
long white apron, very neat, and appropriate to
the Cottage.
' My friends,* cried .the host, * supper awaits
us. Permit me to lead the way.'
lie led them into the house. They found
that Claire was w\aiting them. She was dressed
in some sort of creamy white stufl' with a ribbon
round her neck and a white flower in her black
hair, and she looked so sweet, so dainty, that
Allen choked, and Will turned pale, and