Fergus Hume

A Coin of Edward VII Fergus Hume

Book Excerpt: ...ttle sweetheart some occasion for jealousy. He resolved to mend his ways and shun the too fascinating society of the enchantress. Shaking off his moody feeling, he came forward to assist Morley. The host was a little man, and could not reach the gifts that hung on the topmost boughs of the tree. Giles being tall and having a long reach of arm, came to his aid."That's right, that's right," gasped Morley, his round face red and shining with his exertions, "the best gifts are up here.""As the best gifts of man are from heaven," put in Mrs. Parry, with her usual tact. Morley laughed. "Quite so, quite so," he said, careful as was everyone else not to offend the lady, "but on this occasion we can obtain the best gifts. I and Ware and Mrs. Morley have contributed to the tree. The children have their presents, now for the presents of the grown-ups."By this time the children were gorged with food and distracted by many presents. They were seated everywhere, many on the floor, and the roo...