At last, Mr.Blyth took her up on his knee.

She struggled to get away, for a moment--then looked intently in his face; and, sighing very mournfully, laid her head down on his shoulder.

There was a world of promise for the future success of Valentine's affectionate project in that simple action, and in the preference which it showed.
The day wore on quietly--evening came--seven o'clock struck--then half-past--then eight--and Mrs.Peckover never appeared.

Doctor Joyce grew uneasy, and sent Vance to the circus to get some news of her.
It was again Mr.Blyth--and Mr.Blyth only--who succeeded in partially quieting little Mary under the heavy disappointment of not seeing Mrs.
Peckover at the appointed time.

The child had been restless at first, and had wanted to go to the circus.