breakfast room, and the party who had just arrived were soon surrounded
by smiles of welcome, while busy little fingers were assisting them to
untie their bonnets, and unfasten their cloaks. In a few moments the
door opened, and a pale, but lovely looking girl, in deep mourning,
entered the room. She was a niece of Mr. Wharton's, and, having lately
been left an orphan, by the death of her mother, she had been brought by
her kind uncle, to his hospitable home, where she was received by all as
a member, henceforth, of their family.

"Well, aunty," said she, after stooping to kiss Agnes, "you are back
sooner than I expected."

"Yes, dear, I was obliged to hurry; little Lewie is very ill, I fear. By
the way, Harry, run and tell Matthew that just as soon as he is warm, he
must drive as fast as possible to the village, and ask Dr. Rodney to
get directly into the sleigh, to go to your Aunt Elwyn's; and tell him
to call for me, as he comes back."

"Why, mamma, are you going back there again?" asked Effie.

"Yes, love, I must go back, and remain with your Aunt Harriet to-day. I
only came home to make some arrangements for the family. I want your
papa to drive over for me to-night, after the little ones are all in
bed; and I desire the rest of you to keep out of my way till I have
changed my dress. I do not know yet what is the matter with Lewie. How
do you feel, Emily?"

"Much better, thank you, aunty; I am quite prepared to play lady of the
house in your absence."