Near the gate at the entrance to Rose Hill, was a clear limpid
stream, where the school-children often played, and where they
were now assembled. A little apart from the rest, seated upon a
mossy bank, with her bare feet in the running water, and her rich
auburn hair shading her brown cheeks, was Dora Deane, not dreaming
this time, but watching so intently a race between two of her
companions, that she did not see the carriage until it was
directly opposite. Then, guessing who its occupants were she
started up, coloring crimson as she saw the lady's eyes fixed upon
her, and felt sure she was the subject of remark. "Look, Howard,"
said Ella. "I suppose that is what you call a rural sight--a
barefoot girl, with a burnt face and huge sunbonnet?"

Ere Mr. Hastings could reply, Dora, wishing to redeem her
character, which she was sure she had lost by having been caught
with her feet in the brook, darted forward and opening the gate,
held it for them to pass.

"Shall I give her some money?" softly whispered Ella, feeling for
her purse.

"Hush-sh!" answered Mr. Hastings, for he knew that money would be
an insult to Dora, who felt more than repaid by the pleasant smile
he gave her as he said, "Thank you, miss."

"I have seen a face like his before," thought Dora, as she walked
slowly down the road, while the carriage kept on its way, and soon
carried Ella to her new home.

Not to be pleased with Rose Hill was impossible, and as the young