It was on the afternoon of that day that Dora and Emma set out for a
visit to the plains. "I think," said the former, "that we had better
ride around by 'Snow-Hill,' and inquire at Mr. Cotting's respecting
this family." Mr. Cotting was the minister, and his wife was considered
a very active woman, and such in truth she was. Sewing circles,
Sunday-school exhibitions, donation parties, &c., had been quite
unknown to that community until Mrs. Cotting came. It was said, too,
that she had visited all the poor families around, and fitted out their
children for Sabbath school.

"If," said Dora, "we succeed in getting this poor family of the plains
to mingle with their fellows, Mrs. Cotting's help will be needed; she
is directress of the sewing circle, and from that can obtain clothing
for the children."

"Dear Dora," replied Emma, "don't propose any such thing, either to Mr.
Graffam or his wife, now. It won't do--not yet. We will call and see
Mrs. Cotting, if you please. She may know this family, and may be able
to tell us how to manage. Here is the road which goes around by
Snow-Hill: but stop a moment; there is Willie Graffam and his little
sister, just coming from the plain.

"How do you do, Willie?" continued Emma, as the children, each carrying
a basket of berries, drew nearer.

"Very well, thank you," said Willie, taking off his hat; and the little
girl courtesied, without lifting her eyes from the ground.

"We are going over to see your mother," said Emma.