"I really must; for I only came to stay a month and here I \'ve been nearly six weeks," answered Polly, feeling as if she had been absent a year.

"Make it two months and stay over Christmas. Come, do, now," urged Tom, heartily.

"You are very kind; but I would n\'t miss Christmas at home for anything. Besides, mother says they can\'t possibly do without me."

"Neither can we. Can\'t you tease your mother, and make up your mind to stay?" began Fan.

"Polly never teases. She says it \'s selfish; and I don\'t do it now much," put in Maud, with a virtuous air.
......................................................