very queer that there was so much less time than usual in the world.
She couldn't imagine what had become of it: there used to be plenty.
And she was certain that Dorry must have been tinkering all the
clocks,--they struck so often.

It was just after New Year that Dr. Carr walked in one day with a
letter in his hand, and remarked: "Mr. and Mrs. Page are coming to
stay with us."

"Mr. and Mrs. Page," repeated Katy; "who are they, papa? Did I ever
see them?"

"Once, when you were four years old, and Elsie a baby. Of chouse you
don't remember it."

"But who are they, papa?"

"Mrs. Page was your dear mother's second cousin; and at one time she
lived in your grandfather's family, and was like a sister to mamma and
Uncle Charles. It is a good many years since I have seen her. Mr.
Page is a railroad engineer. He is coming this way on business, and
they will stop for a few days with us. Your Cousin Olivia writes that
she is anxious to see all you children. Have every thing as nice as
you can, Katy."

"Of course, I will. What day are the coming?"

"Thursday,--no, Friday," replied Dr. Carr, consulting the letter,
"Friday evening, at half-past six. Order something substantial for
tea that night, Katy. They'll be hungry after traveling."