Travilla remarked as she poured the coffee. "We have had none since the
telegram giving the hour for the wedding."

"No, but perhaps we may hear this morning--the mail has not come yet."

"Yes, grandpa; here comes Solon with it," said Harold, glancing from the
window.

In a few moments the man came in bringing the mail-bag, which he handed to
Mr. Dinsmore.

All looked on with interest, the younger ones in eager expectation, while
their grandfather opened it and examined the contents.

"Yes, daughter, there is a letter from each of them, both directed to
you," he said, glancing over the addresses on several letters which he now
held in his hand. "Here, Tom," to the servant in waiting, "take these to
your mistress. Don't read them to the neglecting of your breakfast," he
added with a smile, again addressing Mrs. Travilla.

"No, sir; they will keep," she answered, returning the smile; "and you
shall all share the pleasure of their perusal with me after prayers.
Doubtless they give the particulars we all want so much to learn."

They all gathered round her at the appointed time. She held the letters
open in her hand, having already given them a cursory examination lest
there should be some little confidence intended for none but "mother's"
eye.

"Papa," she said, looking up half tearfully, half smilingly at him as he