Elsie's only answer was a mirthful, amused look.

"Oh, but I am glad to see you back!" Carrie ran on. "It seems an age since
you went away."

"Thank you. And your husband? what is he like?"

"I was never good at description, but he is a fine specimen of a Kentucky
planter, and very fond of his wife. By the way, you must blame me that
Edward and Lora were so late in welcoming you home. I arrived only
yesterday morning, quite fatigued with my journey, and begged them to wait
till to-day, and bring me with them."

"That was right. We have not seen Enna yet, or Arthur. Grandpa and Mrs.
Dinsmore and Walter called yesterday. But there is the dinner-bell. Let me
conduct you to the dining-room."

They were just in time to sit down with the others.

Elsie quickly perceived by her Aunt Lora's look and manner, that she, too,
had heard the news, but no remark was make on the subject till the ladies
had retired to the drawing-room, leaving the gentlemen to the enjoyment of
their after-dinner cigars.

Then Mrs. Howard, facing round upon her niece as they entered the room,
exclaimed, "Elsie, you naughty child! are you not ashamed of yourself?"

"On account of what, auntie?"