going to have a Christmas tree, Prue says. Won't that be dandy? Of course, trees are for kids, I guess, but I like them, don't you?"

"Very much."

"Yes, they're so kind of—of Christmasy; they smell so good, don't they. Would you care to come to my tree, do you think, sir?"

"I'd like to very much," answered Wade gravely. "I haven't been to a Christmas tree for a long time. Perhaps, though, your sister wouldn't care to have a stranger."

"She won't mind," said Gordon carelessly. "She's a good sport, sis is. I'll speak to her about it. Are you going to our hotel?"

"Maybe. Which one is yours?"

"I mean the one we're going to. I forget the name of it, but it's the biggest one there. Have you been to Quebec before, sir?"

"No, this is my first visit."

"Mine too. I hope we'll like it," said Gordon gravely. "Are you—are you going up alone, sir?"