said Harold. "Let's build a fort, divide ourselves into two
armies, one besiege and the other defend it."

The proposition was received with enthusiasm and the work of erecting
the snow fort begun at once.

Some of the girls wanted to help, but were told their part was to look
on.

"I can do more than that," said Rosie, and darting into the house, she
presently returned with a small flag. "Here, plant this on your
ramparts, Harold," she said, "if you are to defend the fort."

"I don't know yet to which party I shall belong--besiegers or
besieged--but I'm obliged for the flag and shall plant it as you
advise," he said.

The girls amused themselves snowballing each other, occasionally pausing
to watch the progress the lads were making, the older people doing the
same from the veranda or the windows of the mansion.

The boys were active and soon had their fort--not a large
one--constructed, and the flag planted and waving in a slight wind that
had sprung up.

Lulu standing on the veranda steps, clapped her hands in delight as it
was flung to the breeze and started "That Star Spangled Banner," all the
others joining in and singing with a will.

Then the lads divided themselves into two companies, Harold taking
command of the defenders of the fort, Chester of the attacking party.

"There are not enough of you fellows," called Sydney; "you'd better let
us girls help prepare the ammunition. Women have done such things when
men were scarce."

"So they have," replied Chester. "I'll accept such assistance from you
while you stand back out of danger."

"Then we girls will have to divide into two companies," said Rosie;
"for the boys in the fort must have the same kind of help the others do.
I'll go to them."

"No, no," said Harold, "this is going to be too much of a rough and
tumble play for girls. I decline with thanks."

"Ungrateful fellow!" she retorted. "I don't mean to be a bit sorry for
you if you are defeated."

"I do not intend that you shall have the opportunity," he returned with
a good humored laugh.

"O Rosie, I know what we can do!" cried Lulu; "give them some music."

"Good!" said Sydney, "wait a minute, boys till we hunt up a drum and
fife. The band will play on the veranda."

She, Rosie, and Lulu hurried into the house as she spoke.

"Yes, I'll lend you mine," shouted Walter, after them. "They're up in
the play-room;--two drums, two mouth organs and a fife, and a trumpet."

The boys waited,