 I drink so deep of grief that he must only think, not dare to speak, that would express my woe. All rivers murmur, deep gulfs silent flow. Marston Safanicia It was no want of love for his child that had kept Mr. Dinsmore from at once obeying Adelaide's summons. He had left the place where she supposed him to be, and thus it happened that her letters did not reach him nearly so soon as she had expected. But when at length they were put into his hands, and he read of Elsie's entreaty that he would come to her, and saw by the date how long she had been ill, his distress and alarm were most excessive, and within an hour he had set out on his return, travelling night and day with the greatest possible dispatch. Strangers wondered at the young, fine-looking man, who seemed in such desperate haste to reach the end of his journey, sat half the time with his watch in his hand, and looked so despairingly wretched whenever the train stopped for a moment. Elsie was indeed, as Adelaide had said, the very idol of his heart, and at times he suffered but little less than she did. But his will was stronger even than his love, and he had fondly hoped that this separation from him would produce the change in her which he so much desired, and had thus far persuaded himself that he was only using the legitimate authority of a parent, and therefore acting quite right, and in fact with the truest kindness, because as he reasoned she would be happier all her life if once relieved from the supposed necessity of conforming to rules so strict and unbending. But suddenly his eyes seemed to have been opened to see his conduct in a new light, and he called himself a brute, a monster, a cruel persecutor, and longed to annihilate time and space that he might clasp his child in his arms, tell her how dearly he loved her, and assure her that never again would he require her to do awe against her conscience. Again and again he took out his sister's letters, and read and reread them, vainly trying to assure himself that there was no danger that she could not be so very ill. She is so young, he said to himself, and has always been healthy. It cannot be that she will die. He started, and shuddered at the word. Oh, no! It is impossible, he mentally exclaimed. God is too merciful to send me so terrible an affliction. He had not received Adelaide's last, and was therefore quite unprepared to find his child so near the borders of the grave. It was early on the morning of the day after her fearful relapse that a carriage drove rapidly up the avenue, and Horace Dinsmore looked from its window, half expecting to see again the little graceful figure that had been wont to stand upon the steps of the portico, ready to greet his arrival with such outgushings of joy and love. But Pasha, he exclaimed to himself, of course she is not yet able to leave her room, but my return will soon set her up again, the darling. My poor little pet, he added, with a sigh, as memory brought her vividly before him as he had last seen her, and recalled her sorrowful pleading looks and words. My poor darling, you shall have all the love and caresses now that your heart can desire. And he sprang out, glancing up at the windows above, to see if she were not looking down at him. But she was not to be seen. Yet it did not strike him as strange that all the shutters were closed, since it was the east side of the house, and a warm summer sun was shining full upon them. A servant met him at the door, looking grave and sad. But Mr. Dinsmar waited not to ask any questions, and merely giving the man a nod, springing up the stairs, and hurried to his daughter's room, all dusty and travel-stained as he was. He heard her laugh as he reached the door. Ah, she must be a great deal better. She will soon be quite well again, now that I have come, he murmured to himself, with a smile as he pushed it open. But alas, what a sight met his eye. The doctor, Mrs. Travella, Adelaide, and Chloe all grouped about the bed, where lay his little daughter, tossing about, and raving in the wildest delirium, now shrieking with fear, now laughing, and unnatural, hysterical laugh, and so changed that no one could have recognized her. The little face so thin, the beautiful hair of which he had been so proud, all gone. The eyes sunken deep in her head, and their soft light changed to the glare of insanity. Could it be Elsie, his own beautiful little Elsie? He could scarcely believe it, and a sickening feeling of horror and remorse crept over him. No one seemed aware of his entrance, for all eyes were fixed upon the little sufferer. But as he drew near the bed, with a heart too full for speech, Elsie's eye fell upon him, and with a wild shriek of mortal terror, she clung to her aunt, crying out, Oh, save me, save me, he's coming to take me away to the Inquisition. Go away, go away! And she looked at him with a countenance so full of fear and horror, that the doctor hastily took him by the arm to lead him away. But Mr. Dinsmore resisted. Elsie, my daughter, it is I, your own father, who loves you dearly. He set in tones of the keenest anguish, as he bent over her, and tried to take her hand. But she snatched it away, and clung to her aunt again, hiding her face, and shuttering with fear. Mr. Dinsmore groaned aloud, and no longer resisted the physician's efforts to lead him from the room. It is the delirium of fever, Dr. Barton said, in answer to the father's agonized look of inquiry. She will recover her reason, if she lives. The last words were added in a lower, quicker tone. Mr. Dinsmore covered his face, and uttered a groan of agony. Doctor, is there no hope? He asked, in a hoarse whisper. Do you wish me to tell you precisely what I think? Asked the physician. I do, I do, let me know the worst. Was the quick, passionate rejoinder? Then Mr. Dinsmore, I will be frank with you. Had you returned one week ago? I think she might have been saved. Possibly, even had you been here yesterday morning, while she was still in possession of her reason. But now I see not one ray of hope. I never knew one so low to recover. He started, as Mr. Dinsmore raised his face again. So pale, so haggard, so grief-stricken had it become in that one moment. Doctor, he said, in a hollow, broken voice, save my child, and you may take all I am worth. I cannot live without her. I will do all I can, replied the physician, in a tone of deep compassion. But the great physician alone can save her. We must look to him. Doctor, said Mr. Dinsmore hoarsely, if that child dies I must go to my grave with the brand of cane upon me, for I have killed her by my cruelty. And oh, Doctor, she is the very light of my eyes, the joy of my heart. How can I give her up? Save her, Doctor, and you will be entitled to my everlasting gratitude. Surely, my dear sir, you are reproaching yourself unjustly, said the physician soothingly, replying to the first part of Mr. Dinsmore's remark. I have heard you spoken of as a very fond father, and have formed the same opinion from my own observation, and your little girl's evident affection for you. And I was, but in one respect. I insisted upon obedience, even when my commands came in collision with her conscientious scruples. And she was firm, she had the spirit of a martyr. And I was very severe in my efforts to subdue what I called willfulness and obstinacy, said the distracted father, and a voice often scarcely audible from emotion. I thought I was right, but now I see that I was fearfully wrong. There is life yet, Mr. Dinsmore, remarked the doctor compassionately, and though human skill can do no more, he who raised the dead child of the ruler of the synagogue, and restored the son of the widow of Nain to her arms, can give back your child to your embrace. Let me entreat you to go to him, my dear sir. And now I must return to my patient. I fear it will be necessary for you to keep out of sight until there is some change, as your presence seems to excite her so much. Do not let that distress you, he added kindly, as he noticed an expression of the keenest anguish sweep over Mr. Dinsmore's features. It is a common thing in such cases for them to turn away from the very onely love best when in health. Mr. Dinsmore replied only by a convulsive grasp of the friendly hand held out to him, and hurrying away to his own apartments, shot himself up there to give way to his bitter grief and remorse, where no human eye could see him. For hours he paced backward and forward, weeping and groaning in such mental agony as he had never known before. His usual fastidious neatness in person and dress was entirely forgotten, and it never once occurred to his recollection that he had been travelling for several days and nights in succession through he and dust without making any change in his clothing, and he was equally unconscious that he had passed many hours without tasting any food. The breakfast bell rang, but he paid no heed to the summons. Then John, his faithful servant, knocked at his door, but was refused admittance, and went sorrowfully back to the kitchen with the waiter of tempting vines he had so carefully prepared, hoping to induce his master to eat. But Horace Dinsmore could not stay away from his child while she yet lived, and though he might not watch by her bed of suffering, nor clasp her little form in his arms, as he longed to do, he must be where he could hear the sound of that voice, so soon alas, to be hushed in death. He entered the room noiselessly, and took his station in a distant corner, where she could not possibly see him. She was moaning, as if in pain, and the sound went to his very heart. Sinking down upon a seat, he bowed his head upon his hands, and struggled to suppress his emotion. Increased tenfold by the words which the next instant fell upon his ear, spoken in his little daughter's own sweet voice. "'Yes, Mama, yes,' she said, "'I am coming. Take me to Jesus.'" Then in a pitiful wailing tone, "'I'm all alone. There's nobody to love me. Oh, Papa, kiss me just once. I will be good, but I must love Jesus best, and obey him always.' He rose hastily, as if to go to her, but the doctor shook his head, and he sank into a seat again with a deep groan. "'Oh, Papa,' she shrieked, as if in mortal terror, "'don't send me there, they will kill me. Oh, Papa, have mercy on your own little daughter.' It was only by the strongest effort of his will that he could keep his seat. But Adelaide was speaking soothingly to her. "'Darling,' she said, "'your Papa loves you, he will not send you away.' And Elsie answered, in her natural tone, "'But I'm going to Mama. Dear Aunt Adelaide, comfort my poor Papa when I am gone.' Her father started, and trembled between hope and fear. Surely she was talking rationally now. But ah, those ominous words, was she indeed about to leave him and go to her mother?' But she was speaking again, in trembling, tearful tones. He wouldn't kiss me. He said he never would till I submit. And oh, he never breaks his word. Oh, Papa, Papa, will you never love me any more? I love you so very dearly. You'll kiss me when I'm dying, Papa, dear, won't you?' Mr. Dinsmore could bear no more. But starting up he would have approached the bed. But a warning gesture from the physician prevented him, and he hurried from the room. He met Travella in the hall. Neither spoke, but Edward wrung his friend's hand convulsively, then hastily turned away to hide his emotion, while Mr. Dinsmore hurried to his room and locked himself in. He did not calm down to dinner, and Adelaide, hearing from the anxious John how long he had been without food, began to feel seriously alarmed on his account, and carried up a biscuit and a cup of coffee with her own hands. He opened the door at her earnest solicitation, but only shook his head mournfully, saying that he had no desire for food. She urged him, even with tears in her eyes, but all in vain. He replied that he could not eat. It was impossible. Adelaide had at first felt inclined to reproach him bitterly for his long delay in returning home. But he looked so very wretched, so utterly crushed by the weight of this great sorrow, that she had not the heart to say one reproachful word, but on the contrary longed to comfort him. He begged her to sit down, and give him a few moments' conversation. He told her why he had been so long in answering her summons, and how he had travelled night and day since receiving it. And then he questioned her closely about the whole course of Elsie's sickness. Every change in her condition, from first to last, all that had been done for her, and all that she had said and done. Adelaide told him everything, dwelling particularly on the child's restless longing for him, her earnest desire to receive his forgiveness and caress before she died, and her entreaties to her to comfort her dear papa when she was gone. She told him, too, of her last will and testament, and of the little package which was, after her death, to be given to him, along with her dearly loved Bible. He was deeply moved during this recital, sometimes sitting with his head bowed down, hiding his face in his hands, and others rising and pacing the floor, his breast heaving with emotion, and a groan of anguish ever and anon bursting from his overburdened heart, in spite of the mighty effort he was evidently making to control himself. But at last she was done. She had told him all that there was to tell, and for a few moments both sat silent. Adelaide weeping quietly, and he striving in vain to be calm. At length he said, in a husky tone, Sister Adelaide, I can never thank you, as you deserve, for your kindness to her, my precious child. Oh, brother, replied Adelaide, sobbing, I owe her a debt of gratitude I can never repay. She has been all my comfort in my great sorrow. She has taught me the way to heaven, and now she is going before. Then with a burst of uncontrollable grief, she exclaimed, Oh, Elsie, Elsie, darling child, how can I give you up? Mr. Dinsmore hid his face, and his whole frame shook with emotion. My punishment is greater than I can bear, he exclaimed, and a voice choked with grief. Adelaide, do you not despise and hate me for my cruelty to that angel child? My poor brother, I am very sorry for you, she replied, laying her hand on his arm, while the tears trembled in her eyes. There was a light tap at the door. It was Dr. Barton. Mr. Dinsmore, he said, she is begging so piteously for her papa, that perhaps it would be well for you to show yourself again. It is just possible she may recognize you. Mr. Dinsmore waited for no second bidding, but following the physician with eager haste was the next moment at the bedside. The little girl was moving restlessly about, moaning, Oh, papa, papa, will you never come? I am here, darling," he replied, in tones of the tenderest affection. I have come back to my little girl. She turned her head to look at him. No, no, she said, I want my papa. My darling, do you not know me? He asked in a voice quivering with emotion. No, no, you shall not. I will never do it, never. Oh, make him go away, she shrieked, clinging to Mrs. Travella, and glaring at him with the look of the wildest affright. He has come to torture me because I won't pray to the virgin. It is quite useless, said the doctor, shaking his head sorrowfully. She evidently does not know you. And the unhappy father turned away and left the room to shut himself up again alone with his agony and remorse. No one saw him again that night, and when the maid came to attend to his room in the morning she was surprised and alarmed to find that the bed had not been touched. Mr. Travella, who was keeping a sorrowful vigil in the room below, had he been questioned, could have told that there had been scarcely cessation in the sound of the footsteps pacing to and fro over his head. It had been a night of anguish and heart-searching, such as Horace Dinsmore had never passed there before. For the first time he saw himself to be what he really was in the sight of God, a guilty, healthy, deserving sinner, lost, ruined, and undone. He had never believed it before, and the prayers which he had occasionally offered up had been very much in the spirit of the Pharisees. God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are. He had been blessed with a pious mother, who was early taken from him, yet not too early to have had some influence in forming the character of her son, and the faint but tender recollection of that mother's prayers and teachings had proved a safeguard to him in many an hour of temptation, and had kept him from falling into the open vices of some of his less scrupulous companions. But he had been very proud of his morality and his upright life, unstained by any dishonorable act. He had always thought of himself as quite deserving of the prosperity with which he had been blessed in the affairs of this world, and just as likely as anyone to be happy in the next. The news of Elsie's illness had first opened his eyes to the enormity of his conduct in relation to her. And now, as he thought of her pure life, her constant anxiety to do right, her deep humility, her love to Jesus, and steadfast adherence to what she believed to be her duty, her murder-like spirit in parting with everything she most esteemed and valued, rather than be guilty of what seemed to others but a very slight infringement of the law of God. As he thought of all this, and contrasted it with his own worldly mindedness and self-righteousness, his utter neglect of the Saviour, and determined efforts to make his child as worldly as himself, he shrank back, appalled at the picture, and was constrained to cry out in bitterness of soul, God be merciful to me, a sinner. It was the first real prayer he had ever offered. He would fain have asked for the life of his child, but dared not, feeling that he had so utterly abused his trust that he richly deserved to have it taken from him. The very thought was agony, but he dared not ask to have it otherwise. He had given up all hope that she would be spared to him, but pleaded earnestly that one lucid interval might be granted her, in which he could tell her of his deep sorrow on account of his severity toward her, and ask her forgiveness. He did not go down to breakfast, but Adelaide again brought him some refreshment, and at length he yielded to her entreaties that he would try to eat a little. She sat down the selver, and turned away to hide the tears she could not keep back. Her heart ached for him. She had never seen such a change in a few hours as had passed over him. He seemed to have grown ten years older in that one night. He was so pale and haggard, his eyes so sunken in his head, and there were deep, hard lines of suffering on his brow and around his mouth. His meal was soon concluded. Adelaide, how was she, he asked in a voice, which he vainly endeavored to make calm and steady. Much the same, there seems to be very little change, replied his sister, wiping away her tears. Then drawing Elsie's little Bible from her pocket, she put it into his hand, saying, I thought it might help to comfort you, my poor brother, and with a fresh burst of tears she hastily left the room, and hurried to her own, to spend a few moments and pleading for him that this heavy affliction might be made to the means of leading him to Christ. And he, ah, he could not at first trust himself even to look at the little volume that had been so constantly in his darling's hands that it seemed almost a part of herself. He held it in a close, loving grasp, while his averted eyes were dim with unshed tears. But at length, passing his hand over them to clear away the blinding mist, he opened the little book and turned over its pages with trembling fingers, and a heart swelling with emotion. There were many texts marked with her pencil, and many pages blistered with her tears. Oh, what a pang that sight sent to her father's heart! In some parts these evidences of her frequent and sorrowful perusal were more numerous than in others. Many of the Psalms, the Lamentations of Jeremiah, and the Books of Job and Isaiah, and the Old Testament, and St. John's Gospel, and the letter part of Hebrews in the New. Hour after hour he sat there reading that little book, at first interested in it only because of its association with her, his loved one, but at length beginning to feel the importance of its teachings and their adaptedness to his needs. As he read, his convictions deepened the inspired declaration that without holiness no man shall see the Lord. And the solemn warning, See that ye refuse not him that speaketh, for if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven. Filled him with fear of the wrath to come. For well he remembered how all his life he had turned away from the Saviour of sinners, despising that blood of sprinkling, and rejecting all the offers of mercy, and he trembled lest he should not escape. Several times during the day and evening he laid the book aside, and still softly into Elsie's room, to learn if there had been any change. But there was none, and at length quite worn out with fatigue and sorrow, for he had been several nights without any rest. He threw himself down on a couch, and fell into a heavy slumber. About midnight Adelaide came and woke him to say that Elsie had become calm, the fever had left her, and she had fallen asleep. The doctor, she added, says this is the crisis, and he begins to have a little hope, very faint indeed, but still a hope, that she may awake refreshed from this slumber. Yet it might be, he is fearful it is, only the precursor of death. The last word was almost inaudible. Mr. Dinsmore trembled with excitement. I will go to her, he said, in an agitated tone. She will not know of my presence, now that she is sleeping, and I may at least have the sad satisfaction of looking at her dear little face. But Adelaide shook her head. No, no, she replied, that will never do, for we know not at what moment she may awake, and the agitation she would probably feel at the sight of you would be almost certain to prove fatal. Had you not better remain here, and I will call you the moment she wakes. Mr. Dinsmore acquiesced with a deep sigh, and she went back to her post. Hour after hour they sat there, Mrs. Travella, Adelaide, the doctor, and poor old Chloe, silent and still as statues, watching that quiet slumber, straining their ears to catch the faint sound of the gentle breathing, a sound so low that ever and anon their hearts thrilled with the sudden fear that it had ceased forever, and one or another, rising noiselessly, would bend over the little form and speechless alarm, until again they caught the low, fitful sound. The first faint streak of dawn was beginning in the eastern sky, when the doctor, who had been bending over her for several minutes, suddenly laid his finger on her pulse for an instant, then turned to his fellow watchers with a look that there was no mistaking. There was weeping and wailing then in that room, where deathlike stillness had reigned so long. Precious, precious child, dear Lamb safely gathered into the Saviour's fold, said Mrs. Travella, in quivering tones, as she gently laid her hand upon the closed eyes, and straightened the limbs as tenderly as though it had been a living, breathing form. Oh, Elsie, Elsie, dear, dear little Elsie, cried Adelaide, flinging herself upon the bed, and pressing her lips to the cold cheek. I have only just learned to know your value, and now you are taken from me. Oh, Elsie, darling, precious one, oh, that I had sooner learned your worth, that I had done more to make your short life happy. Chloe was sobbing at the foot of the bed. Oh, my child, my child, oh, now this old heart will break for sure, while the kind-hearted physician stood wiping his eyes and sawing deeply. Her poor father exclaimed Mrs. Travella at length. Yes, yes, I will go to him, said Adelaide quickly. I promised to call him the moment she waked. And now—oh, now, I must tell him she will never wake again. No, replied Mrs. Travella, rather tell him that she has waked in heaven, and is even now singing the song of the redeemed. Adelaide turned to Elsie's writing-desk, and taking from it the packet which the child had directed to be given to her father, as soon as she was gone, she carried it to him. Her low knock was instantly followed by the opening of the door, for he had been awaiting her coming in torturing suspense. She could not look at him, but he still was thrusting the packet into his hand, turned weeping away. He well understood the meaning of her silence and her tears, and with a groan of anguish that Adelaide never could forget, he shot and locked himself in again, while she hurried to her room to indulge her grief in solitude, leaving Mrs. Travella and Chloe to attend to the last sad offices of love to the dear remains of the little departed one. The news had quickly spread through the house, and sobs and bitter weeping were heard in every part of it, for Elsie had been dearly loved by all. Chloe was assisting Mrs. Travella. Suddenly the lady paused in her work, saying in an agitated tone, Quick, quick, Aunt Chloe, throw open that shutter wide, I thought I felt a little warmth about the heart. And yes, yes, I was not mistaken. There is a slight quivering of the eyelid. Go, Chloe, call the doctor, she may live yet. The doctor was only in the room below, and in a moment was at the bedside, doing all that could be done to fan into a flame that little spark of life. And they were successful, in a few moments those eyes, which they had thought closed forever to all the beauties of earth, opened again, and a faint, weak voice asked for water. The doctor was obliged to banish Chloe from the room, lest the noisy manifestation of her joy should injure her nursing, yet trembling upon the very verge of the grave. And as he did so, he cautioned her to refrain from yet communicating the glad tidings to any one, lest some sound of their rejoicing might reach the sick chamber and disturb the little sufferer. And then he and the motherly old lady took their stations at the bedside once more, watching in perfect silence, and administering every few moments a little stimulant, for she was weak as a newborn infant, and only in this way could they keep the flickering flame of life from dying out again. It was not until more than an hour had passed in this way, and hope began to grow stronger in their breasts, until it became almost certainty that Elsie would live, that they thought of her father and aunt, so entirely had their attention been engrossed by the critical condition of their little patient. It was many minutes after Adelaide left him ere Mr. Dinsmark could think of anything but the terrible crushing blow which had fallen upon him, and his agonized feelings found vent in groans of bitter anguish, fit to melt a heart of stone. But at length he grew somewhat calmer, and as his eye fell upon the little packet he remembered that it was her dying gift to him, and with a deep sigh he took it up and opened it. It contained his wife's miniature, the same that Elsie had always worn suspended from her neck, one of the child's glossy ringlets severed from her head by her own little hands the day before she was taken ill, and a letter directed in her hand writing to himself. He pressed the lock of hair to his lips, then laid it gently down, and opened the letter. Dear, dear papa, it began, my heart is very sad tonight. There is such a weary aching pain there that will never be gone till I can lay my head against your breast and feel your arms folding me tight and your kisses on my cheek. Ah, papa, how often I wish you could just look down into my heart and see how full of love to you it is. I am always thinking of you, and longing to be with you. You bade me go and see the home you have prepared, and I have obeyed you. You say, if I will only be submissive we will live there, and be so very happy together. And I cannot tell you how my heart longs for such a life with you in that lovely, lovely home, nor how happy I could be there, or anywhere with you, if you would only let me make God's law the rule of my life. But my own dear father, if I have found your frown so dreadful, so hard to bear, how much more terrible would my heavenly fathers be? Oh, papa, that would make me wretched indeed. But oh, I cannot bear to think of being sent away from you among strangers. Dear, dear, papa, will you not spare your little daughter this trial? I will try to be so very good and obedient in everything that my conscience will allow. I am so sad, papa, so very sad, as if something terrible was coming, and my head feels strangely. I fear I am going to be ill, perhaps to die. Oh, papa, will I never see you again? I want to ask you to forgive me for all the naughty thoughts and feelings I have ever had toward you. I think I have never disobeyed you indeed, papa, except the few times you have known of when I forgot, or thought you bade me break God's law. But twice I have rebelled in my heart. Once was when you took Miss Rose's letter from me, and again when Mammy told me you had said she must go away. It was only for a little while each time, papa, but it was very wicked, and I am very, very sorry. Will you please forgive me, and I will try to never indulge such wicked feelings again? The paper was blistered with Elsie's tears, and other tears were falling thick and fast upon it now. She to ask forgiveness of me for a momentary feeling of indignation when I so abused my authority? He groaned. Oh, my darling, I would give all I am worth to bring you back for one hour that I might ask your forgiveness on my knees. But there was more of the letter, and he read on. Dear papa, she continued, should I die and never see you again in this world? Don't ever feel vexed with yourself, and think that you have been too severe with me. I know you have only done what you had a right to do. For am I not your own? Oh, I love to belong to you, papa, and you meant it all to make me good, and I needed it, for I was loving you too dearly. I was getting away from my saviour. But when you put me away from your arms, and separated me from my nurse, I had no one to go to but Jesus, and he drew me closer to him, and I found his love very sweet and precious. It has been all my comfort in my great sorrow. Dear papa, when I am gone, and you feel sad and lonely, will not you go to Jesus too? I will leave you my dear little Bible, papa. Please read it for Elsie's sake, and God grant it may comfort you as it has your little daughter. Once dear papa, try to forget these sad days of our estrangement, and remember only the time when your little girl was always on your knee, or by your side. Oh, it breaks my heart to think of those sweet times, and that they will never come again. Oh, for one kiss, one caress, one word of love from you. For oh, how I love you, my own dear, beloved, precious papa, your little daughter, Elsie. Sir Dinsmore dropped his head upon his hands and groaned aloud. It was his turn now to long, with an unutterable longing, for one caress, one word of love from those sweet lips that should never speak again. A long time he sat there, living over again in memory, every scene in his life in which his child had borne apart, and repenting, oh, so bitterly, of every harsh word he had ever spoken to her, of every act of unjust severity. And alas, how many and how cruel they seem to him now! Remorse was eating into his very soul, and he would have given worlds to be able to recall the past. CHAPTER XIII CHAPTER XIII Boy the lost one is restored, sunshine comes to hearth and board. Mrs. Hemons, oh, remembrance, why dost thou open all my wounds again? Lease the odosis, I am a fool to weep at what I am glad of. Shacks tempest, but these are tears of joy to see you thus, has filled my eyes with more delight than they can hold. CONGRIVE Mr. Dinsmore was roused from the painful reverie into which he had fallen by a light wrap on his dressing-room door, and supposing it to be someone sent to consult him concerning the necessary arrangements for the funeral, he rose and opened it at once, showing to the doctor, who stood there such grief-stricken continence as caused him to hesitate whether to communicate his glad tidings without some previous preparation, lest the sudden reaction from such despairing grief to joy so intense should be too great for the father to bear. He wished to speak to me about the—Mr. Dinsmore's voice was husky and low, and he paused, unable to finish his sentence. Come in, doctor, he said. It is very kind in you, and— Mr. Dinsmore, said the doctor, interrupting him. Are you prepared for good news? Can you bear it, my dear sir? Mr. Dinsmore caught at the furniture for support and gasped for breath. What is it? he asked hoarsely. Good news, I said. Dr. Barton hastened to say as he sprang to his side to prevent him from falling. Your child yet lives, and though her life still hangs by a thread, the crisis has passed, and I have some hope that she may recover. Thank God! Thank God! exclaimed the father, sinking into a seat, and burying his face in his hands. He sobbed aloud. The doctor went out and closed the door softly, and Horence Dinsmore, falling upon his knees, poured out his thanksgivings, and then and there consecrated himself with all his talents and possessions to the service of that God who had so mercifully spared to him his heart's best treasure. Adelaide's joy and thankfulness were scarcely less than his, when to her also the glad and wondrous tidings were communicated, and Mr. Trevalia and his mother shared their happiness as they had shared their sorrow. Yet they all rejoiced with trembling for that little life was still for many days trembling in the balance, and to the father's anxiety was also added the heavy trial of being excluded from her room. The physician had earlier informed him that it would be risking her life for him to enter her presence until she should herself inquire for him, as they could not tell how great might be the agitation it would cause her. And so he waited, day after day, hoping for the summons, but constantly doomed to disappointment, for even after she had become strong enough to look about her and ask questions, and to notice her friends with a gentle smile and a word of thanks to each, several days passed away, and she had neither inquired for him nor even once so much as mentioned his name. It seemed passing strange, and the thought that perhaps his cruelty had so estranged her from him that she no longer cared for his presence or his love, caused him many a bitter pang, and at times rendered him so desperate that, but for the doctor's repeated warnings he would have ended this torturing suspense by going to her and begging to hear from her own lips whether she had indeed ceased to love him. They had tried to comfort and encourage him to wait patiently, but she too thought it very strange, and began to have vague fears that something was wrong with her little niece. She wondered that Dr. Barton treated the matter so lightly. But then thought she, he has no idea how strongly the child was attached to her father, and therefore her strange silence on the subject does not strike him as it does us. I will ask if I may not venture to mention haunts to her. But when she put the question, the doctor shook his head. No, he said, better let her broach the subject herself. It will be much the safer plan. Adelaide reluctantly acquiesced to his decision, for she was growing almost as impatient as her brother. But fortunately she was not kept much longer in suspense. The next day Elsie, who had been lying for some time wide awake but without speaking, suddenly asked, Aunt Adelaide, have you heard from Miss Allison since she went away? Yes, dear, a number of times replied her aunt much surprised at the question. Once since you were taken sick and she was very sorry to hear of your illness. Dear Miss Rose, how I want to see her, remembered the little girl musingly. Aunt Adelaide, she asked quickly, has there been any letter from Papa since I have been sick? Yes, dear, said Adelaide, beginning to tremble a little, one, but it was written before he heard of your illness. Did he say when he was sail for America, Aunt Adelaide? She asked eagerly. No, dear, replied her aunt, becoming still more alarmed, for she feared the child was losing her reason. Oh, Aunt Adelaide, do you think he will ever come home? Shall I ever see him? And do you think he will love me, moaned the little girl? I am sure he does love you, darling, for indeed he mentioned you very affectionately in his letters. Adelaide said, bending down to kiss the little pale cheek. Now go to sleep, dear child, she added. I am afraid you have been talking quite too much, for you are very weak yet. Elsie was, in fact, quite exhausted. And closing her eyes, fell asleep directly. Then, resigning her place to Chloe, Adelaide stole softly from the room, and seeking her brother repeated to him all that had just passed between Elsie and herself. She simply told her story, keeping her doubts and fears confined to her own breast, but she watched him closely to see if he shared them. He listened at first eagerly, then sat with folded arms and head bent down, so that she could not see his face. Then, rising up hastily, he paced the floor to and fro with rapid strides, sighing heavily to himself. Oh Adelaide, Adelaide, he exclaimed, suddenly pausing before her. Are my sins thus to be visited on my innocent child? Better death a thousand times. And sinking, shuddering into a seat, he covered his face with his hands and groaned aloud. Don't be so distressed, dear brother. I am sure it cannot be so bad as you think, whispered Adelaide. Passing her arm around his neck and kissing him softly. She looks bright enough, and seems to perfectly understand all that is said to her. Dr. Barton announced Pompey, throwing open the door of the parlor where they were sitting. Mr. Dinsmore rose hastily to greet him. What is the matter? Is anything wrong with my patient? He asked, hurriedly, looking from one to the other, and noticing the signs of unusual emotion in each face. Tell him Adelaide, and treated her brother, turning away his head to hide his feelings. Adelaide repeated her story, not without showing considerable emotion, though she did not mention the nature of their fears. Don't be alarmed, said the physician cheerfully. She is not losing her mind as I see you both fear. It is simply a failure of memory for the time being. She has been fearfully ill, and the mind at present partakes of the weakness of the body. But I hope ere long to see them both grow strong together. Let me see. Miss Allison laughed when, a year ago last April, I think you said, Miss Adelaide, and this is October. Ah, well, the little girl has only lost about a year and a half from her life, and it is altogether likely she will recover it, but even supposing she does not. It is no great matter after all. Mr. Dinsmore looked unspeakably relieved, and Adelaide hardly lest so. And this gives you one advantage, Mr. Dinsmore continued the doctor, looking smilingly at him. You can now go to her as soon as Miss Adelaide has cautiously broken to her the news of your arrival. When Elsie waked, Adelaide cautiously communicated to her the tidings that her father had landed in America in safety and health, and hoped to be with them in a day or two. A faint tinge of color came to the little girl's cheek, her eyes sparkled, and clasping her little thin hands together, she exclaimed, Oh, can it really be true that I shall see my own dear father? And do you think he will love me, Adelaide? Yes, indeed, darling, he says he loves you dearly and longs to have you in his arms. Elsie's eyes filled with happy tears. Now you must try to be very calm, darling, and not let the good news hurt you, said her aunt kindly, for I am afraid the doctor will say you are not well enough to see your papa when he comes. I will try to be very quiet, replied the little girl, but oh, I hope he will come soon and that the doctor will let me see him. I shall read to you now, dear, remarked Adelaide, taking up Elsie's little Bible, which had been returned to her some days before, for she had asked for it almost as soon as she was able to speak. Adelaide opened to one of her favorite passages in Isaiah and read in a low, quiet tone that soon soothed the little one to sleep. Has my papa come? was her first question on Awaking. Do you think you are strong enough to see him? asked Adelaide smiling. Oh, yes, Aunt Adelaide, is he here? She inquired, beginning to tremble with agitation. I'm afraid you are not strong enough yet, said Adelaide doubtfully. You're trembling very much. Dear Aunt Adelaide, I will try to be very calm. Dude, let me see him. She urged to be seekingly. It won't hurt me half so much as to be kept waiting. Yes, Adelaide, she is right, my precious child. They shall keep us apart no longer. And Elsie was gently raised in her father's arms and folded to his beating heart. She looked up eagerly into his face. It was full of the tenderness, love and pity. Papa, Papa, my own Papa, she murmured, dropping her head upon his breast. He held her for some moments, caressing her silently, then laid her gently down upon her pillow and sat by her side with one little hand held fast in his. She raised her large soft eyes, all dim with tears to his face. Do you love me, my own Papa? She asked in a voice so low and weak he could scarcely catch the words. Better than life, he said, his voice trembling with emotion. And he leaned over her, passing his hand caressingly over her face. Does my little daughter love me? He asked. Oh, so very, very much, she said, and closing her eyes wearily. She fell asleep again. And now Mr. Dinsmore was constantly with his little girl. She could scarcely bear to have him out of her sight, but clung to him with a fondness of affection, which he fully returned, and he never willingly left her for an hour. She seemed to have entirely forgotten their first meeting and everything which had occurred since up to the beginning of her illness, and always talked to her father as though they had but just begun their acquaintance. And it was with feelings half pleasurable, half painful, that he listened to her. It was certainly a relief to have her so unconscious of their estrangement, and yet such an utter failure of memory distressed him with fears of permanent and serious injury to her intellect. And thus it was with mingled hope and dread that he looked forward to the fulfillment of the doctor's prophecy that her memory would return. She was growing stronger so that she was able to be moved from her bed to a couch during the day, and when she was very weary of lying, her father would take her in his arms and carry her back and forth, or, seating himself in a large rocking chair, soothe her to sleep on his breast, holding her there for hours, never caring for the aching of his arms, but really enjoying the consciousness that he was adding to her comfort by suffering a little himself. Mrs. Travilla had some time since found it absolutely necessary to give her personal attention to her own household, and Adelaide, quite worn out with nursing, needed rest. And so, with a little help from Chloe, Mr. Dinsmore took the whole care of his little girl, mixing and administering her medicines with his own hand, giving her her food, soothing her in her hours of restlessness, reading, talking, singing to her, exerting all his powers for her entertainment, and never weary of waiting upon her. He watched by her couch night and day, only now and then snatching a few hours of sleep on a sofa in her room, while the faithful old nurse took his place by her side. One day he had been reading to Elsie while she lay on her sofa. Presently he closed the book, and looking at her, noticed that her eyes were fixed upon his face with a troubled expression. What is it, dearest, he asked? Papa, she said in a doubtful, hesitating way, it seems as if I had seen you before. Have I, Papa? Why surely, darling, he answered, trying to laugh, though he trembled inwardly. I have been with you for nearly two weeks, and you have seen me every day. No, Papa, but I mean before. Did I dream that you gave me a doll once? Were you ever vexed with me? Oh, Papa, help me to think, she said in a troubled, anxious tone, rubbing her hand across her forehead as she spoke. Don't try to think, darling, he replied cheerfully, as he raised her, shook up her pillows, and settled her more comfortably on them. I am not in the least vexed with you. There is nothing wrong, and I love you very, very dearly. So shut your eyes and try to go to sleep. She looked only half satisfied, but closed her eyes as he bait her and was soon asleep. She seemed thoughtful and absent all the rest of the day, every now and then, fixing the same troubled, questioning look on him. And it was quite impossible to interest her in any subject for more than a few moments at a time. That night, for the first time, he went to his own room, leaving her entirely in Chloe's care. He had watched by her after she was put in bed for the night until she had fallen asleep. But he left her feeling a little anxious, for the same troubled look was on her face as though even in sleep memory was reasserting her sway. When he entered her room again in the morning, although it was still early, he found her already dressed for the day in a pretty loose wrapper upon the sofa. Good morning, little daughter, you are quite an early bird today for a sick one, he said, gaily. But as he drew near, he was surprised and pained to see that she was trembling very much and that her eyes were red with weeping. What is it, dearest, he asked, bending over her in tender solicitude. What ails, my little one? Oh, Papa, she said, bursting into tears. I remember it all now. Are you angry with me yet? And must I go away from you as soon as? But she was unable to finish her sentence. He had now, down by her side, and now raising her gently up and laying her head against his breast, he kissed her tenderly, saying in a moved tone, in the beautiful words of Ruth the Moabitis. The Lord do so to me and more also if art but death part me and thee. He paused a moment as if unable to proceed. Then in town's tremulous with emotion said, Elsie, my dear, my darling daughter, I have been a very cruel father to you. I have most shamefully abused my authority, but never again will I require you to do anything contrary to the teachings of God's word. Will you forgive your father, dearest, for all he has made you suffer? Dear Papa, don't. Oh, please don't say such words to me, she said. I cannot bear to hear them. You had a right to do whatever you pleased with your own child. No, daughter, not to force you to disobey God, he answered with deep solemnity. I have learned to look upon you now, not as absolutely my own, but as belonging first to him and only lent to me for a time, and I know that I will have to give an account of my stewardship. He paused a moment, then went on. Elsie, darling, your prayers for me have been answered. Your father has learned to know and love Jesus, and has consecrated to his service the remainder of his days. And now, dear one, we are traveling the same road at last. Her happiness was too deep for words, for anything but tears, and putting her little arms around his neck, she sobbed out her joy and gratitude upon his breast. Aunt Chloe had gone down to the kitchen immediately upon Mr. Dinsmore's entrance to prepare Elsie's breakfast, and so they were quite alone. He held her to his heart for a moment, then kissing away her tears, laid her gently back upon her pillow again, and took up the Bible which lay beside her. I have learned to love it almost as well as you do, dearest, he said. Shall we read together, as you and Miss Rose used to do long ago? Her glad look was answer enough, and opening to one of her favorite passages he read it in his deep, rich voice while she lay listening, with a full heart, to the dearly-loved words which sounded sweeter than ever before. He closed the book. He had taken one of her little hands, and in his air he began to read, and still holding it fast in a close, loving grasp, he knelt down and prayed. He thanked God for their spared lives, and especially for the recovery of his dear little one, who had so lately been tottering upon the very verge of the grave, and his voice trembled with emotion as he alluded to that time of trial, and confessed that it was undeserved mercy to him, for he had been most unfaithful in his trust. And then he asked for grace and wisdom to guide and guard her, and train her up all right, both by precept and example. He confessed that he had been all his days a wanderer from the right path, and that if left to himself, he never would have sought it, but thanked God that he had been led by the gracious influences of the Holy Spirit to turn his feet into that straight and narrow way. And he prayed that he might be kept from ever turning aside again into the broad road, and that he and his little girl might now walk hand in hand together on their journey to the celestial city. Elsie's heart swelled with emotion, and glad tears rained down her cheeks. And thus, for the first time, she heard her father's voice in prayer. It was the happiest hour she had ever known. Take me, Papa, please, she begged holding out her hands to him as he rose from his knees, and drawing his chair close to her couch, sat down by her side. He took her in his arms, and she laid her head on his breast again, saying, I am so happy, so very happy. Dear Papa, it is worth all the sickness and everything else that I have suffered. He only answered with a kiss. Will you read and pray with me every morning, Papa? She asked. Yes, darling, he said, and when we get into our own home, we will call in the servants morning and evening and have family worship. Shall you like that? Very much, Papa. Oh, how nice it will be! And will we go soon to our own home, Papa? She asked eagerly. Just as soon as you are well enough to be moved, dearest. But here is Aunt Chloe with your breakfast, so now we must stop talking and let you eat. May I talk a little more now, Papa? She asked when she had done eating. Yes, a little, if it is anything of importance, he answered smilingly. I wanted to say that I think our new home is very, very lovely, and that I think we shall be so happy there. Dear Papa, you were so very kind to furnish those pretty rooms for me. Thank you very much, she said, pressing his hand to her lips. I will try to be so good and obedient that you will never regret having spent so much money and taken so much trouble for me. I know you will, daughter. You have always been a dutiful child, he said tenderly, and I shall never regret anything that adds to your happiness. And will you do all that you said in that letter, Papa? Will you teach me yourself? She asked eagerly. If you wish it my pet, but if you prefer a governess, I will try to get one who will be more kind and patient than Miss Day. One thing is certain, she shall never teach you again. Oh no, Papa, please teach me yourself. I will try to be very good and not give you much trouble, she said coaxingly. I will, he said with a smile. The doctor thinks that in a day or two you may be able to take a short ride and I hope it will not be very long before we will be in our own home. Now, I am going to wrap you up and carry you to my dressing room to spend the day, for I know you are tired of this room. How pleasant, she exclaimed, how kind you are to think of it, Papa. I feel as glad as I used to when I was going to take a long ride on my pony. He smiled on her a pleased, affectionate smile and bathed go and see if the room was in order for them. Chloe returned almost immediately to say that all was in readiness and Elsie was then raised in her father's strong arms and born quickly through the hall and into the dressing room where she was laid upon a sofa and propped up with pillows. She looked very comfortable and very glad she was to have a little change of scene after her long confinement to one room. Just as she was fairly settled the spell rang and her father left her in Chloe's care for a few moments while he went down to take his meal. I have brought you a visitor, Elsie, he said, when he returned. She looked up and to her surprise saw her grandfather standing near the door. He came forward then and taking the little thin hand she held out to him he stooped and kissed her cheek. I am sorry to see you looking so ill, my dear, he said not without a touch of feeling in his heart, but I hope you will get well very fast now. Yes, Grandpa, thank you. I am a great deal better than I was, she answered with a tear in her eye before it was the first caress she ever remembered having received from him and she felt quite touched. Have the others come, Grandpa? She asked. Yes, my dear, they are all at home now and I think Laura will be coming to speak to you presently. She has been quite anxious to see him. Don't let her come until afternoon, father, if you please, set his son looking anxiously at his little girl. Elsie cannot bear much yet and I see she is beginning to look exhausted already and he laid his finger on her pulse. I shall caution her on the subject replied his father turning to leave the room, then to Elsie. You had better go to sleep now, child. Sleep and eat all you can and get up. Her father placed her more comfortably on the pillows, smoothed the cover and closed the blinds to shut out the sunlight and sat down to watch her while she slept. End of Chapter 13 Part 1. Section 19 of Holiday at Roselands This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Joyce Martin. Holidays at Roselands by Martha Finley. Chapter 13 Part 2. It was a long deep sleep before she was quite worn out by the excitement of the morning. The dinner hour had passed and still she slumbered on and he began to grow uneasy. He was leaning over her with his finger on her slender wrist watching her breathing and counting her pulse when she opened her eyes and looking up lovingly into his face said, Dear Papa, I feel so much better. I am very glad, Daughter, he replied, you have had a long sleep and now I will take you on my knee and Aunt Chloe will bring up your dinner. Elsie's appetite was poor and her father spared neither trouble nor expense in procuring for her every dainty that could be thought of at all suited to her state of health and he was delighted when he could tempt her to eat with tolerable heartiness. She seemed to enjoy her dinner and he watched her with intense pleasure. Can I see Laura now, Papa? She asked when Chloe had removed the dishes. Yes, he said. Aunt Chloe, you may tell Miss Laura that we are ready to receive her now. Laura came in quite gay and full of spirits of Elsie lying so pale and languid in her father's arms. She had hard work to keep from bursting into tears and could scarcely command her voice to speak. Dear Laura, I am so glad to see you, said the little girl holding at her small thin hand. Laura took it and kissed it saying in a tremulous tone, how ill you look! Elsie held up her face and Laura stooped and kissed her lips then bursting into tears and sobs. She ran out of the room. Oh, Adelaide! she cried, rushing into her sister's room. How she has changed! I should never have known her! Oh, do you think she can ever get well? If you had seen her two or three weeks ago, you would be quite encouraged by her appearance. Now, replied her sister. The doctor considers her out of danger now, though he says she must have been careful nursing, and that I assure you she gets from her father. He seems to feel that he can never do enough for her and won't let me share the labour at all, although I would often be very glad to do it. He ought to do all he can for her. He would be a brute if he didn't, for it was all his doing, her being so ill, exclaimed Laura, indignantly. No, no, I ought not to say that, she added correcting herself immediately, for we were all unkind to her, I as well as the rest. Oh, Adelaide, what a bitter thought that was to me when I heard she was dying! I never realised before how lovely and how very different from all the rest of us she was. Yes, poor darling, she has had a hard life amongst us, replied Adelaide, sighing while the tears rose to her eyes. You can never know, Laura, what an agonising thought it was at the moment when I believed that she had left us forever. I would have given worlds to have been able to live the last six years over again. But, Horance, oh, Laura, I don't believe there was a more wretched being on the face of the earth than he. I was very angry with him at first, but when I saw how utterly crushed and heartbroken he was, I couldn't say one word. Adelaide was crying now in good earnest, as well as Laura. Presently Laura asked for a full account of Elsie's illness, which Adelaide was beginning to give when a servant came to say that Elsie wanted to see her. So, with a promise to Laura to finish her story another time, she hastened to obey the summons. She found the little girl lying languidly in her father's arms. Dear Anne Adelaide, she said, I wanted to see you. You haven't been in today to look at your little patient. Adelaide smiled and patted her cheek. Yes, my dear, she said, I have been in twice, but found you sleeping both times, and your father keeping guard over you, like a tiger watching his cub. No, no, Anne Adelaide, Papa isn't a bit like a tiger, said Elsie, passing her small, white hand caressingly over his face. You mustn't say that. I don't know, replied Adelaide, laughing and shaking her head. I think anybody who should be daring enough to disturb your slumbers would find there was considerable of the tiger in him. Elsie looked up into her father's face as if expecting him to deny the charge. Never mind, said he, smiling, and Adelaide is only trying to tease us a little. A servant came in and whispered something to Adelaide. Mr. and Mrs. Travilla, she said, turning to her brother, is Elsie able to see them? Oh, yes, Papa, please, begged the little girl in a coaxing tone. Well, then, for a few moments, I supposed, he answered rather doubtfully, and Adelaide went down and brought them up. Elsie was very glad to see them, but seeing that she looked weak and weary, they did not stay long, but soon took an affectionate leave of her, expressing the hope that it would not be many weeks before she would be able to pay a visit to Ion. Her father promised to take her to spend a day there as soon as she was well enough, and then they went away. Elsie's strength returned very slowly, and she had many trying hours of weakness and nervous prostration to endure. She was almost always very patient, but on a few rare occasions, when suffering was more than usual, there was a slight peevishness in her tone. Once it was to her father speaking, and the instant she had done so, she looked up at him with eyes brimful of tears expecting a stern rebuke, or, at the very least, a look of great displeasure. But he did not seem to have hurt her and only busied himself in trying to make her more comfortable, and when she seemed to feel easier again, he kissed her tenderly, saying softly, my poor little one. Papa knows she suffers a great deal of pain. Yes, Papa, thank you, she answered the tears coming into her eyes again. I don't know what makes me so cross. You are very good not to scold me. I think my little girl is very patient, he said, caressing her again, and if she were not, I couldn't have the heart to scold her after all she has suffered. Shall I sing to you now? Yes, Papa, please sing, I want to be like Jesus. Oh, I do want to be like him, and then I should never even feel impatient. He did as she requested, singing in a low soothing voice that soon lulled her to sleep. He was an indefatigable nurse, never weary, never in the least impatient, and nothing that skill and kindness could do for the comfort and recovery of his little daughter was left undone. He carried her in his arms from room to room, and then, as she grew stronger, she went down into the garden. Then he sent for a garden chair in which he drew her about the gardens with his own hands, or if he called a servant to do it, he walked by her side, doing all he could to amuse her, and when she was ready to be carried indoors again, no one was allowed to touch her but himself. At last she was able to take short and easy rides in the carriage, not more than a quarter of a mile or so far, but gradually they were lengthened as she seemed able to bear it. One day he was unusually eager to get into the carriage, and after they had started instead of calling her attention to the scenery as he often did, he began relating a story which interested her so much that she did not notice in what direction they were traveling until the carriage stopped. The footman threw open the door and, in the middle of a sentence, sprang out hastily, lifted her in his arms and carried her into the house. She did not know where she was until he had laid her on a sofa, and giving her a rapturous kiss exclaimed, Welcome home, my darling, welcome to your father's house. Then she looked up and saw that she was indeed in the dear home he had prepared for her months before. She was too glad to speak a word of anything but gaze about her with eyes brimming over with delight, while her father took off her bonnet and shawl, and setting her on her feet led her across the room to an easy chair where he seated her in state. He then threw open a door and there was another pleasant surprise for who but her old friend, Mrs. Murray, should rush in and take her in her arms, kissing her and crying over her. Dear, dear Baron, she exclaimed, I see you win some we-face once more. I hope it will soon grow as round and rosy as ever, now that you've won to your own home at last. But where, darling, are all your bunny curls, she asked suddenly. In the drawer in my room at Grandpa's, replied the little girl with a faint smile, they had to be cut off when I was so sick. You were not vexed, Papa, she asked, raising her eyes timidly to his face. No, darling, not vexed, certainly, though very sorry indeed that it was necessary. He said in a kind, gentle tone, passing his hand caressingly over her head. Ah, well, remarked Mrs. Murray cheerfully. We went afred about it. They will soon grow again and these little soft rings of hair are very pretty, too. I thought you were in Scotland, Mrs. Murray, when did you come back? asked the little girl. I came to this place only yesterday, darling, but it is about a week since I landed in America. I am so glad to see you, dear Mrs. Murray, as he said, holding fast to her hand and looking lovingly into her face. I haven't forgotten any of the good things you taught me. Then turning to her father, she said very earnestly, Papa, you won't need now to have me grow up for a long while because Mrs. Murray is such an excellent housekeeper. He smiled and patted her cheek, crying pleasantly. No, dear, I shall keep you a little girl as long as ever I can and give Mrs. Murray plenty of time to make a good housekeeper of you. At what hour will you have dinner, sir? asked the old lady, turning to leave the room. At one, if you please, he said, looking at his watch, I want Elsie to eat with me and it must be early on her account. Elsie's little face was quite bright with pleasure. It would be very delightful to dine together in our own house. May I always dine with you? I hope so, he said, smiling, I am not fond of eating alone. They were in Mr. Dinsmore's study into which Elsie's own little sitting-room opened. Do you feel equal to a walk through your room's door or shall I carry you? he asked, bending over. I think I will try to walk, Papa, if you please, she said, putting her in the room. He led her slowly forward, but her steps seemed tottering, and he passed his arm around her waist and supported her to the sofa in her own pretty little boudoir. Although it was now quite late in the fall the weather was still warm and pleasant in that southern climb, flowers were blooming in the gardens and doors and windows stood wide open. Elsie glanced out of the window and then around the room. What a lovely place it is, she said, and everything in this dear little room is so complete, so very pretty. Dear Papa, you are very, very kind to me. I will have to be a very good girl to deserve it all. Does it please you, darling? I am very glad, he said, drawing her pleasure to him. I have tried to think of everything that would be useful to you or give you pleasure, but if there is anything else you want just tell me what it is she said smiling at him. I could never have thought of half the pretty things that are here already and I don't believe there is anything else I could possibly want. Ah, Papa, how happy I am today, so very much happier than when I was here before. Then I thought I should never be happy again in this world. There's your picture. I cried very much when I looked at it that day, but it does not make me feel like crying now and I am so glad to have it. Thank you a thousand times for giving it to me. You are very welcome, darling. You deserve it all and more than all, replied her father tenderly. And now he asked, will you look at the other rooms or are you too tired? I want to try the piano first if you please, Papa, she said. It is so long since I touched one. He opened the instrument and then picked her up and seated her on the stool saying find yourself hardly equal to the exertion, but you may try. She began a little peace which always had been a favorite of his. He, standing beside her and supporting her with his arm, but it seemed hard work. The tiny hands trembled so with weakness and he would not let her finish. You must wait until another day, dearest, he said, taking her in his arms. You are not strong enough yet and I think I will have to carry you through the other rooms. If you are to see them at all, shall I? She assented, laying her head down languidly on his shoulder and had very little to say as he bore her along through the dressing room and into the bedroom beyond. The bed looked very inviting with its snowy drapery and he laid her gently down upon it saying, You are too much fatigue to attempt anything more and must take a nap now, my pet, to recruit yourself a little before dinner. Don't leave me, Papa, please don't, she exclaimed, half-steering up as he turned toward the door. No, dearest, he said, I'm only going to get your shawl to lay over you and we'll be back again in a moment. He returned almost immediately, but found her already fast asleep. Poor darling, she was quite worn out, he murmured, as he spread the shawl carefully over her. Then, taking a book from his pocket, he sat down by her side and read until she awoke. It was the sound of the dinner bell which had roused her and as she sat up looking quite bright and cheerful again, he asked if she thought she could eat some dinner and would like to be taken to the dining room. She assented and he carried her there, seated her in an easy chair, wheeled it up to the table and then sat down opposite to her looking supremely happy. The servants were about to uncover the dishes, but motioning them to wait a moment, Mr. Dinsmore bowed his head over his plate and asked the blessing on their food. It sent a glow of happiness to Elsie's little pale face and she loved and respected her father more than ever. She seemed to enjoy her dinner and he watched her with a pleased look. The change of air has done you good already, I think, he remarked. You seem to have a better appetite than you have had since your sickness. Yes, Pop, I believe everything tastes good because it's home, and you're not feeling lovingly up at him. After dinner he held her on his knee a while, chatting pleasantly with her about their plans for the future, and then, laying her on the sofa in her pretty boudoir, he brought a book from the library and read to her. It was a very interesting story he had chosen and he had been reading for more than an hour. When, happening to look at her, he noticed that her eyes were very bright and her cheeks blushed as if with fever. He suddenly closed the book and laid his finger on her pulse. Oh, Papa, please go on, she begged. I am so much interested. No, daughter, your pulse is very quick. And I fear this book is entirely too exciting for you at present. So I shall not read any more of it today, he said, laying it aside. Oh, Papa, I want to hear it so much. Do please read a little more, or else let me have the book myself. She pleaded in a coaxing tone. My little daughter must not forget old lessons, he replied very gravely. She turned her way her head with almost a pout on her lip and her eyes full of tears. He did not reprove her, though, as he once would have done. But seeming not to notice her ill-humour, exerted himself to soothe and amuse her by talking in a cheerful strain of other matters, and in a very few moments all traces of it had disappeared and she was answering him in her usual pleasant tone. They had both been silent for several minutes when she said, Please, Papa, put your head close down to me, I want to say something to you. He complied and putting her little arm around his neck she said in a very humble tone, Dear Papa, I was very naughty and cross just now and I think I have been cross several times lately and you have been so good and kind not to reprove or punish me for being so reserved. Please, Papa, forgive me. I am very sorry and I will try to be a better girl. He kissed her very tenderly. I do forgive you freely, my little one, he said. I know it seemed hard to give up the story just there, but it was for your good and you must try always to believe that Papa knows best. You are very precious to your father's heart, Elsie, but I am not going to spoil my little girl because I love her so dearly and so near losing her. His voice trembled as he pronounced the last words and for a moment emotion kept him silent. Then he went on again. I shall never again bid you to violence to your conscience, my daughter, but to all the commands which I do lay upon you I shall still expect and require the same ready and cheerful obedience that I have here to fore. It is my duty to require and yours to yield it. Yes, Papa, I know it is, she said with a little sigh, but it is very difficult sometimes to keep from wanting to have my own way. Yes, darling, I know it, for I find it so with myself, replied her father gently, but we must ask God to help us to give up our own wills and be satisfied to do and have what we ought rather than what we would like. I will, Papa, she whispered, hugging him tighter and tighter. Oh, glad you teach me that. They were quite quiet again for a little while. She was running her fingers through his hair. Oh, Papa, she exclaimed, I see two or three white hairs. I'm so sorry, I don't want you to get old. What made those come so soon, Papa? He did not reply immediately, but taking her in his arms held her close to his heart. It was beating very fast. Suddenly she seemed to comprehend. Was it because you were afraid I was going to die, Papa? She asked. Yes, dearest, and because I had reason to think that my own cruelty had killed you. The words were almost inaudible, but she heard them. Dear, dear, Papa, how I love you, she said, putting her arms around his neck again, and I am so glad for your sake that I did not die. He pressed her closer and closer, with a heart too full for words. They sat thus for some time, but were at length interrupted by the entrance of Chloe, who had been left behind at Roselands to attend to the packing and removal of Elsie's clothes, and all her little possessions. She had finished her work, and her entrance was immediately followed by that of the men's servants bearing several large trunks and boxes, the contents of which she proceeded at once to unpack and rearrange the apartments. Elsie watched this operation with a good deal of interest, occasionally directing where this or that article should be put, but in the midst of it all was carried off by her father to the tea table. Soon after tea, the servants were all called together and Mr. Dinsmore, after addressing a few words to them on the importance of calling upon God, the blessings promised to those who did, and the curses pronounced upon families who did not, read a chapter from the Bible and offered up a prayer. All were solemn and attentive, and all seemed pleased with the arrangement, for Mr. Dinsmore had told them it was to be the regular custom of the house morning and evening, but Elsie, Mrs. Murray, and Chloe fairly wept for joy and thankfulness. Elsie begged for another chapter and prayer in the privacy of her own rooms, she undressed her, and her father carried her to her bed and placed her in it with a loving good-night kiss, and thus ended the first happy day in her own dear home. End of Chapter 13 Part 2 Recording by Joyce Martin Section 20 of Holidays at Roselands This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Holidays at Roselands by Martha Finlay Chapter 14 Part 1 Her world was ever Joyce, she thought of grief and pain as giants in the olden time that never would come again. Mrs. Hales Alice Ray Then all was jollity, feasting and mirth. Jane Shore It was with the start and a momentary feeling of perplexity as to her whereabouts followed almost instantly by the glad remembrance that she was indeed at home that the little Elsie awoke the next morning. She sat up in the bed and gazed about her. Everything had a new fresh look and an air of simple elegance that struck her as very charming. A door on her right communicating with her father's sleeping apartment and she could hear him moving about. Papa, she called in her sweet silvery tones. Good morning, daughter. He said, appearing an answer to her summons. Why, how bright my little girl is looking this morning. Yes, Papa, I feel so well and strong I do believe I can walk to the dining room. Please, may I get up now? Yes, Aunt Chloe may dress you and call me when you are ready. He replied, bending down to give her a kiss. Chloe was just coming in from a small adjoining room which had been appropriated to her use and exclaimed with delight at her darling's bright looks. Dress her very nicely, Aunt Chloe, said Mr. Dunesmore, for I think it is quite possible we may have visitors today and besides, I wanted to look her best for my own enjoyment. He added, with a loving look and smile directed towards its little girl. Chloe promised to do her best and he seemed entirely satisfied with the result of her labours as well he might, for else he looked very lovely in her simple white dress and little embroidered pink sack which seemed to lend a faint tinge of colour to her pale cheeks. She was tired, though, with the dressing and quite willing to give up her plan of walking to the dining room and let her father carry her. After breakfast, he sat with her on his knee for a little while and, giving her on the sofa and giving her a kiss, he told her he must leave her with Chloe for an hour or two as he had some business matters to arrange with her grandfather after which he would take her to ride. I wish you didn't have to go, papa, but please come back as soon as you can, she said coaxingly. I will, darling, and now, Aunt Chloe, I'll leave her in your care. Don't let her do anything to tire herself, he said as he went out. Elsie listened until she heard the sound of his horse's hooves as he galloped down the avenue and then turning to her nurse, she exclaimed eagerly, Now, Mammy, please hand me my workbox and that unfinished slipper. You is not fit to serve, darling child, objected the careful old woman doing as she was asked, nevertheless. Well, Mammy, I want to try and I'll stop directly if it tires me, replied the little girl. Please put me in my rocking chair, therefore, papa, you see, I have to get them done before Christmas. There's plenty of time yet before Christmas, darling, to do that little bit, Chloe said, taint coming this four or five weeks, better wait till you get stronger. Elsie was not to be dissuaded, however, from making the attempt, but a very few moments' work satisfied her that she was still too weak for such an employment and she readily consented to let Chloe put away her workbox and lay her on her sofa again, where she spent the rest of the time in reading her Bible until her father returned. Then came her ride and then a nap which took up all the morning until near dinner time. She found Mr. Travilla standing there talking with her father when she awoke. She was very glad to see him and to hear that he was going to stay for dinner and they had quite a little chat together about the new home and its surroundings. After dinner, her aunt Adelaide, Laura and Walter called to see them at the house, but both they and Mr. Travilla went away early, he promising to bring his mother to see her very soon and then she was left alone with her father again. Would you like now to hear the remainder of the story we were reading yesterday, daughter? He asked. Very much, Papa, I have been wanting it all day. Why did you not ask for it then? He inquired. Because, Papa, I was ashamed after being so naughty about it yesterday. She answered, hanging her head and blushing deeply. Well, you shall have it now, daughter. He said luridly, pressing his lips to the little blushing cheek. I had forgotten about it or I would have given you the book to read while I was out this morning. A very pleasant happy life had now begun for our little Elsie. All her troubles seemed to be over and she was surrounded by everything that heart could wish. Her father watched over her devoting the greater part of his time to her entertainment and instruction sparing neither trouble nor expense to give her pleasure and those still requiring unhesitating cheerful obedience to his wishes and commands yet ruling her not less gently than firmly. He never spoke to her now in a stern tone and after a while she ceased to expect and read it. Her health improved quite rapidly after their removal to the oaks and before Christmas came again a little stroll in the grounds or a short ride on her favorite pony. Her cheeks were becoming round and rosy again and her hair had grown long enough to curl in soft glossy little ringlets all over her head and her father thought her almost prettier than ever. But he was very careful of her still scarcely willing to have her a moment out of his sight, lest she should become over fatigued or her health be injured in some way. And he always accompanied her ever watching over her with the most unbeared love. As her health and strength returned he permitted her in accordance with her own wishes gradually to resume her studies and took great pleasure in instructing her. But he was very particular to see that she did not attempt too much nor sit pouring over her books when she needed exercise and recreation as she was sometimes rather inclined to do. Maasar this gentleman wants to speak to you said a servant looking in at the study door one afternoon a few days before Christmas. Very well John show him into the library and I will be there in a moment replied Mr. Dinsmore putting down his book. He glanced at Elsie this little figure half buried in the cushions of a great easy chair near one of the windows into which she had climbed more than an hour before and where she had been sitting ever since completely lost to all that might be going on about her in the deep interest with which she was following the adventures of Fitz James in Scott's Lady of the Lake. Daughter I'm afraid you are reading more today than is quite good for you he said looking at his watch you must put up your book very soon now and go out for a walk I shall probably be down in 10 or 15 minutes but if I'm not you must not wait for me but take Aunt Chloe with you Yes Papa she replied looking up from her book for an instant and then returning to it again as he left the room she had not the least intention of disobeying but soon forgot everything else in the interest of her story the stranger detained Mr. Dinsmore much longer than he had expected and the short winter day was drawing rapidly to a close when he returned to his study to find Elsie much to his surprise and displeasure precisely where he had left her she was not aware of his entrance until he was close beside her then looking up with a start she colored violently he gently took the book from her hand and laid it away then lifting her from her chair led her across the room where he seated himself upon the sofa and drawing her in between his knees regarded her with a look of grave sad displeasure has my little daughter any idea how long it is since the father beat her put up her book he asked in a gently reproving tone Elsie hung her head in silence and a tear rolled quickly down her burning cheek it grieves me very much he said to find that my little girl can be so disobedient it almost makes me fear that she does not love me very much oh papa don't oh don't say that I can't bear to hear it she cried bursting into an agony of tears and sobs and hiding her face on his breast I do love you very much papa and I can't bear to think I've grieved you she sobbed I know I am very naughty and deserved to be punished but I didn't mean to disobey the book was so interesting I didn't know at all how the time went he sighed but said nothing only drew her closer to him pulling his arm around her and stroking her hair in a gentle caressing way there was no sound for some moments but Elsie sobs then she asked in a half whisper are you going to punish me papa I shall take the book from you for a few days I hope that will be punishment enough to make you pay better attention to my commands in future he said very gravely dear papa how kind you are I'm sure I deserve a great deal worse punishment than that she exclaimed raising her head and looking up gratefully and lovingly into his face but I'm very very sorry for my disobedience will you please forgive me I will daughter and he bent down and kissed her lips now go he said and get your cloak and hood I think we will still have time for a little stroll through the grounds before dark Elsie had very little to say during their walk but moved silently along by her father's side with her hand clasped in his and he too seemed unusually abstracted it was quite dusk when they entered the house again and when the little girl returned to the study after Chloe had taken off her wrappings she found her father seated in an easy chair drawn up on one side of a bright wood fire that was blazing and crackling on the earth Elsie dearly loved the twilight hour and it was one of her greatest pleasures to climb upon her father's knee and sit there talking or singing or perhaps oftener just laying her head down on his breast and watching the play of the firelight on the carpet or the leaping of the flames hither and thither Mr. Dinsmore sat leaning back in his chair apparently in deep thought and did not hear Elsie's slight step she paused for one instant in the doorway casting a wistful longing look at him then with the little sigh walked softly to the other side of the fireplace and seated herself in her little rocking chair for several minutes she sat very quietly gazing into the fire her little face wearing a very sober thoughtful look but she was startled out of her reverie by the sound of her father's voice why am I not to have my little girl on my knee tonight he was asking she rose instantly in a quick eager way and ran to him if you prefer the rocking chair stay there where all means he said but she had already climbed to her accustomed seat and twining her arms around his neck she laid her cheek to his saying no indeed papa you know I don't like the rocking chair half so well as your knee so please let me stay here why did you not come here at first then he asked in a playful tone because I was afraid papa she whispered afraid he repeated with an accent of surprise and looking as if he felt a little hurt yes papa she answered in a low tone because I have been so very naughty this afternoon that I know I don't deserve to come did you not hear me say I forgive you he asked yes papa very well then if you're forgiven you are taken back into favor just as if you had not transgressed and if you had quite believed me you would have come to me at once and claimed the daughter's privilege as usual he said very gravely I do believe you papa truth and mean just what you say she replied in half tearful tones but I know I don't deserve a place on your knee tonight what you deserve is not the question at present we are talking about what you can have whether you deserve it or not ah he continued in a low musing tone more as a thinking allowed than speaking to her just so it is with us all in reference to our heavenly fathers forgiveness when he offers us a full and free part into all our offenses we have no option into his family we don't more than half believe him but still go about groaning under the burden of our sins and afraid to claim the privileges of children it hurts and displeases me when my child doubts my word and yet how often I dishonor my father by doubting his he that believeth not God maketh him a liar without faith it is impossible to please him he relapsed into silence and for some moments neither of them spoke personally over her hair and she resting in his arms and gazing thoughtfully into the fire what is my little one thinking of he asked at last I was thinking what a very naughty girl I've been this afternoon and what a dear kind papa I have she said looking up lovingly into his face you were so kind papa not to punish me as I deserved I was afraid you would send me directly to bed and I should miss my pleasant evening with you I hope my darling gently that you'd not think when I punish you it is from anything like a feeling of revenge or because I take pleasure in giving you pain not at all I do it for your own good and in this instance as I thought you were sorry enough for having grieved and displeased me to keep you from repeating the offense I did not consider any further punishment necessary but perhaps it was mistaken and it was only fear of punishment that caused your tears he added looking keenly at her oh no papa no indeed she exclaimed earnestly the tears rushing into her eyes again it is worse than any punishment to know that I have grieved and displeased you because I love you so very very dearly and the little arm crept around his neck again and the soft cheek was laid to his I know it darling he said I fully believe that you would prefer any physical suffering to the pain of my displeasure Papa she said after a few moments silence I want to tell you something well my daughter I'm ready to listen he answered pleasantly what is it I was looking in my desk today Papa for a letter that I wrote to you the evening before I was taken sick and I couldn't find it did Aunt Adelaide give it to you yes dear I have it and one of your curls he said pressing her closer to him yes Papa that was what I wanted to tell you about I'm afraid I was very naughty to cut it off after all you said about it last Christmas but everything was so strange that night it feels like a dreadful dream to me now I don't think I was quite in my right mind sometimes and I thought I was going to die and something seemed to tell me that you would want some of my hair when I was gone and that nobody would save it for you and so I cut it off myself you do not mind about it Papa dear do you you don't think it was very very naughty in me she asked anxiously no darling no it was very right and kind and much more than I deserved he answered with emotion I'm glad you're not angry Papa she said in a bleeped tone and indeed I did not mean to be not your disobedient John was just bringing in the lights and Mr. Dinsmore took a note from his pocket saying I will read this to you daughter as it concerns you as well as myself it was an invitation from Mrs. Howard the mother of Elsie's friend Carolyn to Mr. Dinsmore and his little girl to come and spend the Christmas holidays with them end of chapter 14 part 1 section 21 of Holidays at Roselands this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Holidays at Roselands by Martha Finlay chapter 14 part 2 well my pet what do you say to it would you like to go he asked as he refolded the note and returned it to his pocket I don't know Papa it seems as if it would be pleasant as we are both invited but home is so sweet and I'm so happy just alone with you that I hardly want to go away so if you please Papa I would much rather just leave it all to you well then we will stay quietly at home he said with a gratified look and I think it will be much the better plan for you are not strong enough yet for gaiety and it would be very little pleasure for you to be there while unable to join in the sports and obliged always to keep early hours but we might have a Christmas dinner at home and invite a few friends to help us eat it who would you like to have Mr. and Mrs. Travella and Aunt Adelaide and Laura if you please Papa and anybody else you like she replied looking very much pleased I should like to have Mary Howard but of course I can't as she is going to have company of her own and I believe nearly all the little girls I'm acquainted with are to be there yes I suppose so well we will ask those who have mentioned and I hope they will come but there is the T-bell and I shall carry my dolly out to the dining room he said rising with her in his arms Papa she said when they had returned to their seats by the study fire may I give Mammy a nice present this Christmas yes he replied kindly I suppose you would want to give some presents and I have just been thinking I would might be managed as you were not fit to shop for yourself as you have not had any pocket money for several months I will allow you now to spend as much as you choose provided you keep with intolerably reasonable bounds he added smiling so you may make out a list of all the articles you want and I will purchase them for you will that do oh nicely Papa she cried clapping her hands with delight it was very good of you to think of all that the slippers has come darling Bill he foshed them from the city this afternoon remarked Chloe as she was preparing her little charge for bed that night oh have they Mammy let me see them was Elsie's eager exclamation Chloe went to her room and was back again in a moment with a bundle in her hand which Elsie immediately seized and opened with eager haste oh how pretty she cried what are you thinking about with them in her hands aren't they Mammy won't Papa be pleased then starting at the sound of a step in their joining room she threw them into a drawer which Chloe had hastily opened for the purpose Elsie said her father opening the door and putting in his head why are you not in bed my daughter you will take cold standing there half undressed go to bed immediately yes Papa I will she replied submissively and he drew back his head again shut the door mighty narrow escape that remarked Chloe laughing if Massa had come just a minute sooner the cat been out of the bag sure enough Elsie made out her list the next day with the help of some suggestions from her father and by Christmas Eve all the purchases had been made and one of the closets in her bedroom was quite filled with packages of various sizes and shapes the little girl was all excitement and did not want to go to bed when the hour came please Papa let me stay up a little longer she pleaded coxingly I'm not a bit sleepy no my daughter you must go at once he said early hours are of great importance in your present state of health and you must try to put away all exciting thoughts and go to sleep as soon as you can you will try to obey me in this yes Papa I'm sure I ought to be very good when you're so kind and indulgent to me she replied as she put up her face for the usual good night kiss God bless and keep my little one and give her many happy returns of this Christmas Eve said Mr. Dinsmore folding her to his heart Elsie had intended to stay awake until her father should be in bed and asleep and then to steal softly into his room and take away the slippers he usually wore replacing them with the new ones which she had worked but now she engaged Chloe to do this for her and in obedience to his directions endeavored to put away all exciting thoughts and go to sleep which she succeeded much sooner than she could have believed possible she was up in rest and saying Merry Christmas at her papa's door quite early the next morning come in said he and tell me what fairy has been here changing my old slippers to new ones no fairy at all Papa but just dear old mammy she cried springing into his arms with the merry ringing laugh ah but I know very well it wasn't Aunt Chloe's fingers that worked them he said kissing her first on one cheek then on the other I wish you a very merry Christmas and a very happy new year my darling thank you for your gift I like it very much indeed and now see what papa has for you and opening a pretty little box that stood on his dressing table he took from it a beautiful pearl necklace and bracelets and clasped them around her neck and arms oh how beautiful dear papa thank you very much she exclaimed delighted he didn't care much for ornaments he remarked looking much pleased I do when you give them to me papa she answered raising her eyes to his face with one of her sweet loving smiles I'm very glad my present pleases you he said but for fear it should not I have provided another and he placed in her hand a very handsomely bound volume of Scott's poems I don't deserve it papa she said coloring deeply and dropping her eyes on the carpet you shall have it at any rate he replied laying his hand gently on her drooping head and now you can finish the lady of the lake this afternoon if you like his prose works I may perhaps give you at some future day but I do not choose you should read them for some years to come but now we will lay this book aside for the present and have our morning chapter together they had finished their devotions and she was sitting on his knee waiting for the breakfast bell to ring when did you find an opportunity to work these without letting me into the secret he asked extending his foot and turning it from side to side to look at a slipper it puzzles me to understand it since I know that for weeks past you have scarcely been an hour out of my side during the day not since you are well enough to serve he said smiling down at her there was an expression of deep gravity almost amounting to sadness on LC's little face that surprised her father a good deal all papa she murmured it makes me feel sad and glad due to look at those slippers why darling he asked in a tender tone because papa I worked almost the whole of them last summer in those sorrowful days when I was all alone I thought I was going to die papa for I was sure I could not live very long without you to love me and I wanted to make something for you that would remind you of your little girl when she was gone and perhaps convince you that she did really love you although she seemed so naughty and rebellious the tears were streaming down her cheeks to keep down a rising sob and then she added I finished them since I came here papa a little at a time whenever you were not with me he was deeply moved my poor darling he sighed drawing her closer to him and caressing her tenderly those were sad days to us both and though I then persuaded myself that I was doing my duty toward you if you had been taken away from me I could never have forgiven myself or known another happy moment but God has treated me with undeserved mercy after breakfast the house servants were all called in to family worship as usual and when that had been attended to Elsie uncovered a large basket which stood on a side table and with the face beaming with delight distributed the Christmas gifts a nice new calico dress or a bright coloured handkerchief to each accompanied by a paper of confectionery they were received with bows and courtesies broad grins of satisfaction of thank you miss Elsie these very handsome, very nice just a ting for this child Mr. Dinsmore stood looking on highly gratified and coming in for a share of the thanks an hour or two later Elsie's little pony and her father's larger but equally beautiful steed were brought up to the door and they wrote down to the quarter followed by Jim and Bill each carrying a good sized basket and there a very similar scene was gone through with Elsie finishing up the business with a showering sugar plums into the outstretched aprons of the little ones laughing merrily at their eagerness and highly enjoying their delight she half wished for an instant as she turned her horses head to ride away again that she was one of them so much did she want a share of the candy which her father refused to let her taste saying it was not fit for her when she was well and much less now while she was yet hardly recovered from severe illness but it was a lovely morning the air pure in brazing and everything else was speedily forgotten in the pleasure of a brisk ride with her father they rode several miles and on their return were overtaken by Mr. Travilla who remarked that Elsie had quite a colour and was looking more like herself than he had seen her since her sickness he was on horseback and his mother arrived a little later in the carriage having called at Roselands on the way and picked up Adelaide Laura did not come as she had accepted an invitation to spend the holidays at Mr. Howard's where a little girl about her own age a cousin of Carrie's from the north was spending the winter Mr. Travilla put a beautiful little pearl ring on Elsie's finger which she gracefully thanked him for and then showing it to her father see papa she said how nicely it matches the bracelets yes daughter it is very pretty he replied and one of these days when you are old enough to wear it you shall have a pin to match Adelaide each gave her a handsome book Adelaide's was a beautifully bound Bible and Elsie was delighted with all her presents and thought no little girl could be richer in Christmas gifts than herself the day passed very pleasantly for they were quite like a family party everyone seeming to feel perfectly at home and at ease the negroes were to have a grand dinner at the quarter and Elsie who had been deeply interested in the preparations cake baking etc was now very anxious to see them enjoying their feast so about one o'clock she and her father invited their guests to walk down there with them to enjoy the sight I for one would like nothing better said Mr. Travilla offering his arm to Adelaide while Mr. Dinsmore took Mrs. Travilla Elsie walking on the other side and keeping fast hold of his hand they found it a very merry scene and the actors in it scarcely enjoyed it more than the spectators their own dinner was served up somewhat the day and with appetites rendered keen by their walk in the bracing air they were ready to do it full justice Adelaide at her brother's request took the head of the table and played the part of hostess very gracefully ah Dinsmore remarked Travilla a little mischievously glancing from one to the other you have a grand establishment here but it still lacks a chief ornament Miss Adelaide fills the place today most gracefully it is true but then we all know she's only honored for the occasion Mr. Dinsmore colored a little and looked slightly annoyed Elsie will supply the deficiency in a few years he said and until then I think I can depend upon the kindness of my sisters besides Travilla he added laughingly you must not forget the old proverb about people who live in glass houses ah replied Travilla looking affectionately at his mother I have a mistress for my establishment and so can a furch to wait for Elsie to look up quickly with a slight flush on her face you needn't Mr. Travilla she said for I'm never going to leave my father and you know he promised not to give me away so if you want a little girl you'll have to look somewhere else ah well I will not despair yet he replied laughingly for I have learned that ladies both little and large very often change their minds and so I shall still live in hopes you know I like you very much indeed Mr. Travilla next best to papa but then I couldn't leave him for anybody you see Elsie said in a deprecating tone and looking affectionately up into his face no my dear that is quite right and I don't feel at all hurt he answered with a good natured smile which seemed to relieve her very much tea was over the guests had returned to their homes and Mr. Dilsmore sat by the fire as usual with his little girl upon his knee we have had a very pleasant day papa haven't we she remarked yes darling I have enjoyed it and I hope you have too very much indeed papa and I do like all my presents so much if I should ask you to give me something of yours would you be willing to do it he inquired in a grave tone why papa she said looking up quickly into his face doesn't everything I have belong to you in some sense it does certainly he replied and yet I like you to feel that you have some rights of property you do not answer my question I can't think what it can be papa but I'm sure there is nothing of mine that I wouldn't be very glad to give you if you wanted it she said earnestly well then said he you aren't give your new bible today and as you don't need to will you give the old one to me a slight shade had come over the little girl's face and she sat for a moment apparently in deep thought then looking up lovingly into his face she replied I love it very much papa and I don't know whether any other bible could ever seem quiet the same to me it was mamas you know and it has been with me in all my troubles and I don't think I could be quite willing to give it to anybody else but I am very glad to give it to you my own dear dear papa and she threw her arms round his neck thank you very much my darling I know it is a very strong proof of your affection and I shall value it more than its weight in gold he said pressing her to his heart and kissing her tenderly End of Chapter 14 Part 2