`` We will walk up and you shall tell us the news as we go , for I see you have some , '' said the young lady , in her friendly manner , when Mrs. Moss had given her welcome and paid her respects to the gentleman who shook hands in a way that convinced her he was indeed what Thorny called him , `` regularly jolly , '' though he was a minister . That being exactly what she came for , the good woman told her tidings as rapidly as possible , and the new-comers were so glad to hear of Ben 's happiness they made very light of Bab 's bonfire , though it had nearly burnt their house down . `` We wo n't say a word about it , for every one must be happy to-day , '' said Mr. George , so kindly that Mrs. Moss felt a load taken off her heart at once . `` Bab was always teasing me for fireworks , but I guess she has had enough for the present , '' laughed Thorny , who was gallantly escorting Bab 's mother up the avenue . `` Every one is so kind ! Teacher was out with the children to cheer us as we passed , and here you all are making things pretty for me , '' said Mrs. Celia , smiling with tears in her eyes , as they drew near the great gate , which certainly did present an animated if not an imposing appearance . Randa and Katy stood on one side , all in their best , bobbing delighted courtesies ; Mr. Brown , half hidden behind the gate on the other side , was keeping Sancho erect , so that he might present arms promptly when the bride appeared . As flowers were scarce , on either post stood a rosy little girl clapping her hands , while out from the thicket of red and yellow boughs , which made a grand bouquet in the lantern frame , came Ben 's head and shoulders , as he waved his grandest flag with its gold paper `` Welcome Home ! '' on a blue ground . `` Is n't it beautiful ! '' cried Mrs. Celia , throwing kisses to the children , shaking hands with her maids , and glancing brightly at the stranger who was keeping Sanch quiet . `` Most people adorn their gate-posts with stone balls , vases , or griffins ; your living images are a great improvement , love , especially the happy boy in the middle , '' said Mr. George , eying Ben with interest , as he nearly tumbled overboard , top-heavy with his banner . `` You must finish what I have only begun , '' answered Celia , adding gayly as Sancho broke loose and came to offer both his paw and his congratulations . `` Sanch , introduce your master , that I may thank him for coming back in time to save my old house . '' `` If I 'd saved a dozen it would n't have half paid for all you 've done for my boy , ma'am , '' answered Mr. Brown , bursting out from behind the gate quite red with gratitude and pleasure . `` I loved to do it , so please remember that this is still his home till you make one for him . Thank God , he is no longer fatherless ! '' and her sweet face said even more than her words as the white hand cordially shook the brown one with a burn across the back . `` Come on , sister . I see the tea-table all ready , and I 'm awfully hungry , '' interrupted Thorny , who had not a ray of sentiment about him , though very glad Ben had got his father back again .
`` Come over , by-and-by , little friends , and let me thank you for your pretty welcome , -- it certainly is a warm one ; '' and Mrs. XXXXX glanced merrily from the three bright faces above her to the old chimney , which still smoked sullenly .
Celia George Katy Moss Randa Sanch Teacher Thorny gate-posts new-comers