"It coincides with yours, daughter," Mr. Dinsmore answered. "And I move
that Ned' and Zoe be appointed a committee to find out the needs of the
proposed recipients of our bounty; others being permitted to assist if
they like."

The motion was carried by acclamation, merry jesting and laughter
followed, and in the midst of it all the door was thrown open and a
visitor announced.

"Mr. Lilburn, ladies and gentlemen."

Grandma Elsie hastily laid aside her crocheting and hurried forward with
both hands extended. "Cousin Ronald! what a joyful surprise! Welcome,
welcome to Ion!"

"Thanks, a thousand thanks, my fair kinswoman, my bonny leddy, my sweet
Cousin Elsie," returned the old gentleman, taking the offered hands in
his and imprinting a kiss upon the still round and blooming cheek. "I
have ventured to come without previous announcement o' my intention, or
query about the inconvenience I might cause in your household
arrangements, or--"

"No fear of that, sir," Mr. Dinsmore interrupted, offering his hand in
return. "I know that you are, and always will be, a most welcome guest
in my daughter's house. You have given us a very pleasant surprise, and
the fault will not be ours if we do not keep you all winter."

The others, from Mrs. Dinsmore down to Walter, followed suit with
greetings no less joyous and cordial, for the old gentleman was a great
favorite at Ion, and with the whole connection.