mother asked for an account of this, Veronica's first day among strangers,
and how she liked her new work.

"Very much indeed, mother," was the answer, and the young girl's face
beamed with a smile that swept away all trace of the clouds that sometimes
marred its beauty.

"I can't tell you how delightful it is to be able to earn so much. But
after all, mother dear, the best part is that I can come home to you at
night."

"That's what I think too," said Dietrich quickly, and you had but to look
in his eyes to see that he spoke the truth.

"And I am as glad as either of you," said Gertrude smiling. "It has been a
long day for me. It seems a great while since you started off this
morning, Veronica."

"What! when your only son was sitting by you all day long?" asked Dietrich
playfully.

"Oh, you know what I mean. I need you both to make me perfectly happy, and
cannot spare either of you;" and she looked from one to the other with
caressing glances.

Veronica told them all about the new teacher and the new work, and it was
late in the evening before the three separated for the night.