Chloe was in waiting and her skilful hands made rapid work, putting
the last touches to her nursling's dress just as the summons to the
supper table was given.

Mr. Dinsmore was quite as fastidious as in former days in regard to
the neatness and tastefulness of Elsie's attire.

"Will I do, papa?" she asked, presenting herself before him, looking
very sweet and fair in a simple white dress with blue sash and
ribbons.

"Yes," he said with a satisfied smile, "I see nothing amiss with
dress, hair, or face."

"Nor do I," said Rose, leading the way to the supper room, "Aunt Chloe
is an accomplished tirewoman. But come, let us sit down to our meal
and have it over."

On their return to the drawing room they, found Mr. Travilla
comfortably ensconced in an easy chair, reading the evening paper. He
was an almost daily visitor at the Oaks, and seldom came without some
little gift for one or both of his friend's children. It was for Elsie
to-night. When the usual greetings had been exchanged, he turned to
her, saying, "I have brought you a treat. Can you guess what it is?"

"A book!"

"Ah, there must be something of the Yankee about you," he answered,
laughing. "Yes, it is a book in two volumes; just published and a