the invalid was left to quietness and repose that he might recover from
the unwonted excitement and fatigue.




CHAPTER VII.

"Therein he them fall fair did entertain,
Not with such forged shows as fitter been
For courting fools, that courtesies would faine,
But with entire affection plain."
--_Spenser's "Fairy Queen."_


One bright morning in November the Ion family were gathered about the
breakfast-table. Rosie and Walter were there for the first time since
their severe illness, a trifle pale and thin still, but nearly in usual
health, and very glad to be permitted to take their old places at the
table.

Mrs. Dinsmore had returned from her sojourn at the Laurels, the home of
her daughter Rose; the grandchildren there, whom she had been nursing,
having also recovered their health; and so the places of the eldest son
and daughter of the house were the only vacant ones.

Both Elsie and Edward were sorely missed, especially by the mother and
Violet.

"It seems time we had letters again from our absentees, papa," Mrs.