The distribution was on Christmas Eve. The next day there was a grand
dinner at Viamede, all the relatives present, and everybody in gayest
spirits.
The day was bright and beautiful, seeming but little like Christmas to
those accustomed to frost and snow at that season.
New Year's day was not less lovely, nor were its festivities less
enjoyable, though the gifts were fewer.
The holidays past, the young folks went back with zest to their studies,
Rosie saying she was now convinced that Captain Raymond was an excellent
teacher, and not at all inclined to tyrannize over a well-behaved pupil;
for which complimentary expression of opinion he gravely thanked her.
"You are very welcome, sir," she said, "and may depend upon a
recommendation from me whenever it is wanted."
"O Rosie, how ridiculous you are!" exclaimed Walter.
But Rosie was already out of the room, the other girls following. They
went out on the lawn, ran about for a while, then settled themselves
under a tree and began cracking and eating nuts.
Lulu, who was very fond of them, presently put one between her teeth and
cracked it there.
"O Lu!" exclaimed Grace, "you forget that papa forbade you to crack nuts
with your teeth, for fear you might break them.
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