ack strove to enliven the
conversation by throwing in elaborate remarks upon the true sphere of
women, the uncertainty of matrimonial ventures and the deceitfulness of
mankind in general. Jill meanwhile preserved her equanimity upon all
points relating to her house. She admitted the force of Aunt
Jerusha's suggestion that a portion of the long serving-table in the
kitchen should be movable and a door made from kitchen to china-closet,
to be kept locked, as a rule, but available in an emergency, when one
or both servants were sick or discharged; she appreciated her advice to
form the habit of washing the silver and fine glasses with her own
hands before leaving the table; she was able to repeat her favorite
recipes correctly; she carved gracefully, as a lady ought, and gave due
attention to her guests. Beyond these duties she was in a state of
bewilderment. What had happened to Bessie, and what new mischief Jack
was incubating were puzzles she could neither solve nor dismiss.

[Illustration: THE EAST END OF JILL'S DINING-ROOM.]

By one of those coincidences, not half as rare as they seem, at four
o'clock the same day Aunt and Uncle Melville appeared upon the scene.
They were spending a short time at a summer hotel in the vicinity, and
Jill persuaded them to stay for tea, sending their carriage back for
Cousin George and his wife, who were at the same place. She also
invited her father and mother to improve the opportunity to make a
small family gathering. "I suppose you know Jim is coming over this
evening," said Jack. "Don't you think he had better bring Uncle Harry
along?"

"I _didn't_ know Jim was coming, but he is always welcome, and Uncle
Harry too. Your father and mother, of course, if they are able to come
out this evening."

"Oh, _they_ are coming, anyway," Jack began and stopped suddenly. "That
is, I mean, certainly they will be delighted, if you send for them."

Jill was more puzzled than ever, but they all came.

"Now, you will please consider yourselves a 'board of visitors,'" said
she, as they sat at the table after tea, "authorized to inspect this
institution and report your impressions."

"Remembering that Jill is the warden and I am the prisoner," said Jack.

"But you must conduct us to the cells," said her father, rising, "and
tell us what to admire."

Jill accordingly began at the beginning. She showed them the light
vestibule, with a closet at one side for umbrellas and overshoes, and a
seat