"Yes," said Zoe; "but I hope that by afternoon they will be good enough
for driving; as I mean to drive over to the depot to meet the late
train, hoping to find Ned on it."

"Don't expect him till to-morrow," said Ella.

"Why not?" queried Zoe, looking as if she could hardly endure the
thought.

"Because, in that case, your disappointment, if you have one, will be
agreeable."

"Yes; but, on the other hand, I should lose all the enjoyment of looking
forward through the whole day, to seeing him this evening. Following
your plan, I shouldn't have half so happy a day as if I keep to my own."


"Ah! that's an entirely new view of the case," Ella said in her merry,
laughing tones.

Miss Deane did not seem to enjoy their society, and they soon withdrew
from her room; Zoe having done all in her power to provide her with
every comfort and amusement available in her case.

"I'm glad that's over," sighed Zoe, when they were alone again. "And now
for our ride, if you are ready, Ella. I ordered my pony for myself, and
mamma's for you; and I see they are at the door."

"Then let us don our riding-habits, and be off at once," said Ella.