generous heart and honest nature deserve more _generous_ treatment. At
least, this time, we grant you further respite.

Johnnie's arrival prevents further moralizing. No room for gravity when
Johnnie Douglas is near. His mischievous spirit is infectious.




CHAPTER V.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES, ETC.


The months pass quickly away. October, with its brilliant trophies of
the wood, has departed, leaving behind many pleasing memories of its
presence. November, in its raw and surly mood, is allowed to take
farewell without any expression of regret. The last of this numerous
family--December--is greeted with a hearty reception from every member
of the Douglas family. The purity of the soft snow flakes, falling in
myriads, are invested with indescribable charms. The clear, cold, and
frosty atmosphere is exhilarating to the bright, fresh countenances of
the youthful party sliding on the ponds and brooks. The river affords
amusement for skaters. The jingle of the bells is music sweet and
gratifying as the horses prance along with a keen sense of the pleasure
they afford to the beautiful ladies encased in costly furs and wrapped
in inviting buffalo robes.

A happy season is in prospective. Christmas is approaching with its
time-honored customs and endearing associations. High and low, rich and