Page:The mislaid uncle (IA mislaiduncle00raym).pdf/74

 enthusiasm. He was deeply religious, and now believed that this unknown child had been sent by heaven itself to gladden their big, empty house. He didn't understand how his master could be "uncle" to anybody, yet, since that master accepted the fact so genially, he was only too glad to do likewise.

It was a fine and stately dinner, and as course after course was served, Josephine's wonder grew, till she had to inquire:

"Is it like this always, to your home, Uncle Joe?"

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"Such a birthday table, and no folks, 'xcept you and me."

"It is the same, usually, unless Peter fails to find a good market. Have you finished? No more cream or cake?" he explained and questioned.

"No, thank you. I'm never asked to take two helpings. Only on the car I had three, sometimes, though I didn't eat them. Mamma wouldn't have liked it."