"But how they _did_ miss you, mother," said Charlie. "Old Gurnet
wrung my hand in tears as he said, 'Yes, sir, 'tis very fine, but it
beats the heart out of it that madam bain't here to see.'"
"Good old Gurnet!" responded Raymond. "They are famously loyal.
The J. C. P. crowned all above all the Cs and Rs, I was happy to
see."
"J. was for Julius--not Julia," said the mother.
"No; J. H. C. and R. C. had a separate device of roses all to
themselves. Hark! is that a cheer beginning again? Had we not
better go into the drawing-room, mother? it will be so many for you
all together."
"Oh no, I must see you all."
The brothers hurried out with their welcome; and in another minute,
a plump soft cheek was pressed to the mother's, devouring kisses
were hailed on her, and a fuller sweeter tone than had yet been
heard answered the welcome.
"Thank you. So kind! Here's Julius! I'll not be in your way."
"Dearest mother, how is it with you?" as her son embraced her.
"Rose has been longing to be with you."
"And we've all come together! How delicious!" cried Rosamond,
enfolding Anne in her embrace; "I didn't know you were come!--See,
Julius!"
But as Julius turned, a startled look came over Anne's face; and she
turned so white, that Rosamond exclaimed, "My dear--what--she's
faint!" And while Cecil stood looking puzzled, Rosamond had her arm
round the trembling form, and disappeared with her, guided and
assisted by Nurse Susan.
Pages:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25