We 'll have a grand bonfire , and see them blaze up , wo n't we ? '' This brilliant prospect consoled Daisy , and she ate her dinner with a row of paper dolls before her , as a sort of farewell banquet . At the appointed hour the sacrificial train set forth , each child bearing the treasures demanded by the insatiable Kitty-mouse . Teddy insisted on going also , and seeing that all the others had toys , he tucked a squeaking lamb under one arm , and old Annabella under the other , little dreaming what anguish the latter idol was to give him . `` Where are you going , my chickens ? '' asked Mrs. Jo , as the flock passed her door . `` To play by the big rock ; ca n't we ? '' `` Yes , only do n't do near the pond , and take good care of baby . '' `` I always do , '' said Daisy , leading forth her charge with a capable air . `` Now , you must all sit round , and not move till I tell you . This flat stone is an altar , and I am going to make a fire on it . '' Demi then proceeded to kindle up a small blaze , as he had seen the boys do at picnics . When the flame burned well , he ordered the company to march round it three times and then stand in a circle . `` I shall begin , and as fast as my things are burnt , you must bring yours . '' With that he solemnly laid on a little paper book full of pictures , pasted in by himself ; this was followed by a dilapidated boat , and then one by one the unhappy leaden soldiers marched to death . Not one faltered or hung back , from the splendid red and yellow captain to the small drummer who had lost his legs ; all vanished in the flames and mingled in one common pool of melted lead . `` Now , Daisy ! '' called the high priest of Kitty-mouse , when his rich offerings had been consumed , to the great satisfaction of the children . `` My dear dollies , how can I let them go ? '' moaned Daisy , hugging the entire dozen with a face full of maternal woe .
`` You must , '' commanded XXXXX ; and with a farewell kiss to each , Daisy laid her blooming dolls upon the coals .
Annabella Daisy Demi Jo Kitty-mouse Teddy captain child fire hour