you would; for I have ever so much to say to you," urged Carrie.

"It would be very pleasant, thank you, but indeed I must not. See how
the shadows are lengthening, and papa does not at all like to have me
out after sunset unless he is with me."

"He always was overcareful of you, erring on the right side, I
suppose, if that be an allowable expression," laughed Lora, as she and
Carrie followed Elsie to the door to see her mount her horse.

The adieus were quickly spoken and the young girl, just touching the
whip to the sleek side of her pony, set off at a gallop, closely
followed by her faithful attendant Jim.

Several miles of rather a lonely road lay between them and home, and
no time was to be lost, if they would reach the Oaks while the sun was
still above the horizon.

They were hardly more than half a mile from the entrance to the
grounds, when Elsie caught sight of a well-known form slowly moving
down the road a few paces ahead of them. It was Arthur, and she soon
perceived that it was his intention to intercept her; he stopped,
turning his face toward her, sprang forward as she came up, and seized
her bridle.

"Stay a moment, Elsie," he said, "I want to speak to you."

"Then come on to the Oaks, and let us talk there; please do, for I am
in a hurry."