“That’s right, my little man; everybody should love his country and feel proud of all its people who resist tyranny and stand up boldly for the principle that ‘all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,’” said a strange voice which seemed to come from their rear.
Every one turned to see the speaker; then finding he was not visible, laughed pleasantly.
“I am glad to learn that you are so well acquainted with our glorious Declaration of Independence, Cousin Ronald, and seem to appreciate it so highly,” remarked Grandma Elsie, with a smiling look into the pleasant face of her kinsman.
“Ah, indeed, cousin! are you entirely sure that I am deserving of that compliment?” queried Mr. Lilburn gravely.
“Quite sure,” she returned. “I could hardly have quoted it so correctly myself.”
“But was that my voice, cousin?” he asked.
“One of your voices, I have no doubt,” she replied laughingly.
“Mr. Lilburn,” said Max, “I have been telling some of my comrades of your ventriloquial powers and they are extremely desirous to witness their exercise. Will you not kindly gratify them while here?”
“Why, laddie, I am hardly more capable in that line than yourself,” laughed the old gentleman.
“But you, sir, are not under authority as I am and so liable to be called to account for your doings.”
“Eh! perhaps not. Well, well, we will be on the lookout for opportunities, you and I. I own I am not averse to gratifying the young folks when I can do so without displeasing their elders.”
A MOMENTARY silence following upon Mr. Lilburn’s remark was broken by a question from Grace. “We are away out in the bay now, aren’t we, papa?” she asked.
“Yes, daughter, and must turn presently, for Max’s leave of absence will be over by the time I can take him back to the Academy.”
“But I may hope to be with you all again to-morrow and the next day, when the graduating exercises are over, may I not, papa?” asked Max.
“I think so; provided you keep out of scrapes,” his father replied, laying a hand affectionately on the lad’s shoulder as he spoke, for Max was now close to his side. “And one evening or the other—both if you like—you may bring some of your mates with you, and perhaps Cousin Ronald and you yourself may be able to entertain them with some exertion of your ventriloquial powers.”