And now Elsie resumed her studies regularly, reciting as before to
her father; while Rose undertook to instruct her in the more feminine
branches of housekeeping and needlework, and a master came from the
city several times a week to give her lessons in music and drawing.
She had been so long without regular employment that she found it very
difficult at first to give her mind to her studies, as she had done
in former days; but her father, though kind and considerate, was
very firm with her, and she soon fell into the traces and worked as
diligently as ever.

Elsie did not find that her father's marriage brought any
uncomfortable change to her. There was no lessening of his love or
care; she saw as much of him as before, had full possession of her
seat upon his knee, and was caressed and fondled quite as often and as
tenderly as ever.

And added to all this were Rose's love and sweet companionship, which
were ever grateful to the little girl, whether they were alone or with
her father. Elsie loved her new mamma dearly and was as respectful
and obedient to her as to her father, though Rose never assumed any
authority; which, however, was entirely unnecessary, as a wish or
request from her was sure to be attended to as if it had been a
command.

And Rose was very happy in her new home. Mr. Dinsmore's family were
pleased with the match and treated her most kindly, while he was
always affectionate, thoughtful, and attentive; not less devoted as
a husband than as a father. They were well suited in taste and
disposition; seldom had the slightest disagreement on any subject, and