After greeting Mr.Balch warmly, he took Clarence by the hand, and led him into the room where his sister was sitting.
"Here is our little friend," said he to her, as she arose and approached them; "try and get him warm, Ada--his hands are like ice." Miss Ada Bell welcomed Clarence in the most affectionate manner, assisted him to remove his coat, unfastened his woollen neck-tie, and smoothed down his glossy black hair; then, warming a napkin, she wrapped it round his benumbed hands, and held them in her own until the circulation was restored and they were supple and comfortable again.
Miss Ada Bell appeared to be about thirty-five.

She had good regular features, hazel eyes, and long chestnut curls: a mouth with the sweetest expression, and a voice so winning and affectionate in its tone that it went straight to the hearts of all that listened to its music.
"Had you a pleasant journey ?" she asked.
"It was rather cold," answered Clarence, "and I am not accustomed to frosty weather." "And did you leave all your friends well ?" she continued, as she chafed his hands.
"Quite well, I thank you," he replied.
"I hear you have a little sister; were you not sorry to leave her behind ?" This question called up the tearful face of little Em and her last embrace.
He could not answer; he only raised his mournful dark eyes to the face of Miss Ada, and as he looked at her they grew moist, and a tear sparkled on his long lashes.

Miss Ada felt that she had touched a tender chord, so she stooped down and kissed his forehead, remarking, "You have a good face, Clarence, and no doubt an equally good heart; we shall get on charmingly together, I know." Those kind words won the orphan's heart, and from that day forth.

Clarence loved her.

Tea was soon brought upon the table, and they all earnestly engaged in the discussion of the various refreshments that Miss Ada's well-stocked larder afforded.