The light faded; the evening drew on.
"It is time for Daisy's tea." It was the first thing that broke a long silence.
"She and I will have it together," said Mr.Randolph.
"Will that be best for you, Mr.Randolph ?" "I hope so." "I doubt it." "Most things in this world are doubtful," said Mr.Randolph; "but we will try." "Will you choose to have tea now, then ?" "Now ?--no." "This is Daisy's time." "Very well.

She must wait for my time." Not a word did Daisy say; only little alternate throbs of joy and fear, as her father or her mother spoke, passed through her heart.

Mrs.
Randolph gave it up; and there was another hour of quiet, very sweet to Daisy.

Then lights were brought, and again Mrs.Randolph proposed, to have the tea served; but again Mr.Randolph negatived her proposal; and things remained as they were.

At last Mrs.Randolph was summoned to preside at the tea-table down stairs; for even now there were one or two guests at Melbourne.