Early the next morning she was awakened by the sun shining in at her
window. She rose at once, dressed quickly, and was soon downstairs, but
not before her mother, who was busily preparing the breakfast. There was
so much to be done before the meal was ready, so much chatter over it,
and so many last words to the boys and their father before they set out
for the hay-field, that Ruth could not find an opportunity to ask her
mother the question that was burning upon her lips, until all trace of
the meal was removed and the children had gone to play in the orchard.

Then she went upstairs to help her make the beds, and there was time for
a quiet chat.

Mrs. Arnold began by inquiring, "What did your cousin say in her letter
yesterday?"

"She asked if I could spend my holidays with them at the sea-side,"
replied Ruth, blushing with joy at the very thought.

"And you would like to go?"

"Oh yes, indeed I should, very, very much; that is--of course--if you
could spare me," she added hesitatingly.

"I suppose then that you do not know what your aunt has suggested. She
writes to know if we will spare you, not only for the holidays, but for
a whole twelvemonth, to be a companion to your cousin and go to school
with her (What are you doing with the pillows, Ruth?), to share her
studies and amusements."

"Should I see none of you for a whole year?"