to Royanna."

"Why, it's just like a fairy tale," Rod exclaimed. "But, no, it isn't,
either," he mused. "A fairy tale is only a make-believe, while this is
really true. It's better than a fairy tale. Isn't it great!" and his
eyes sparkled. "But, say, do grandad and grandma know about it?"

"Yes, dear. I told them last night."

"And I bet they were pleased."

"Indeed they were. I wish you could have seen their faces when I told
them that you are Alec's boy, and their own real grandson."

For a few minutes there was silence, Rod thinking of all that he had
heard, and his mother recalling the night before, when she had revealed
to Mr. and Mrs. Royal the story of her life. Never should she forget
the look of intense joy which came into their eyes, nor the sweet peace
which possessed her heart as they enfolded her in their arms, kissed
her, and called her "daughter." It had seemed almost too good to be
true. She was roused by Rod's voice.

"May I tell Captain Josh?" he asked. "It would be great for him to
know."

"We talked that over last night, dear," was the reply. "Christmas will
soon be here, and you are to have a party on that day. How would it do
to wait until then?"

"Oh, that'll be great! Captain Josh, and the scouts will be here."