vacations at home; he was doing so now, having just completed his
freshman year at Princeton. On his return Walter was to accompany him
and begin his college career.

Miss Day left soon after Lora's marriage and no effort had been made
to fill her place, Adelaide having undertaken to act as governess to
Enna, now the only remaining occupant of the school-room.

Taking advantage of an unusually cool breezy afternoon, Elsie rode
over to Tinegrove, Mr. Howard's plantation--to make a call. She found
the family at home and was urged to stay to tea; but declined, saying
she could not without permission, and had not asked it.

"You will at least take off your hat," said Carrie.

"No, thank you," Elsie answered, "it is not worth while, as I must go
so soon. If you will excuse me, I can talk quite as well with it on."

They had not met for several weeks and found a good deal to say to
each other. At length Elsie drew out her watch.

"Ah!" she exclaimed, "I have overstayed my time! I had no idea it was
so late--you have been so entertaining; but I must go now." And she
rose hastily to take leave.

"Nonsense!" said her Aunt Lora in whose boudoir they were sitting,
"there is no such great hurry, I am sure. You'll get home long before
dark."

"Yes, and might just as well stay another five or ten minutes. I wish