as long as mamma does, for instance?" laughed Rose, giving and receiving
an affectionate caress; for they had seen nothing of each other for
several days.

"The longer the better," was Lucilla's hearty rejoinder. "Do you not say
so too, Mamma Vi?" turning to her.

"Indeed I do," said Violet. "She will certainly make a most pleasant
addition to our party."

"I think you may as well accept the invitation, Rosie," her mother said
with a pleased smile; "and as I know you do not care to keep your errand
a secret from any of your friends here, we can call a family council and
talk the matter over."

"Yes, mamma; that sounds as though you accept Solomon's teaching that
'In the multitude of counsellors there is safety.' And since he was the
wisest of men we may surely consider ourselves safe in so doing. So, if
you like, you may tell Lu and Gracie on what errand I came."

"Tell it yourself, child," returned her mother with an amused look.

At that Rosie held up a letter to the view of Lucilla and Grace, saying,
with a smile and blush, "It is from Will Croly. He has grown tired of
waiting and begs to have matters hurried up somewhat: proposes that I
change my name next month, though the prescribed year of waiting would
thereby be shortened by two months or more."

"Oh, do let him have his way, then!" exclaimed Grace--"at least if he
will promise not to carry you off at once after the wedding--for there