"It is much handsomer than Roselands, I think.

Miss Rose must visit us next time, papa, must she not ?" "If she will, daughter, Miss Allison, or any other member of her father's family, will always find a warm welcome at my house." Rose had only time to say "Thank you," before the carriage had stopped, and Edward, springing out, was ready to assist the others to alight.
Mr.Dinsmore and Elsie were left standing upon the piazza, looking about them, while Edward was engaged for a moment in giving some directions to the coachman, and Rose was speaking to a servant who had come out on their approach.
"Mamma is lying down with a bad headache, Mr.Dinsmore, and papa has not yet returned from the city," said Rose, turning to her guests; "but I hope you will excuse them, and Edward will show you to your room, and try to make you feel at home." Mr.Dinsmore politely expressed his regret at Mrs.Allison's illness, and his hope that their arrival would not be allowed to disturb her.
Miss Allison then left him to her brother's care, and taking Elsie's hand, led her to her own room.

It was a large, airy apartment, very prettily furnished, with another a little smaller opening into it.
"This is my room, Elsie," said Miss Rose, "and that is Sophy's.

You will sleep with her, and so I can take care of you both, for though Chloe can attend you morning and evening as usual, she will have to sleep in one of the servants' rooms in the attic." She had been taking off Elsie's bonnet, and smoothing her hair as she spoke, and now removing her own, she sat down on a low seat, and taking the little girl on her lap, folded her in her arms, and kissed her over and over again, saying softly, "My darling, darling child! I cannot tell you how glad and thankful I am to have you in my arms once more.

I love you very dearly, little Elsie." Elsie was almost too glad to speak, but presently she whispered, "Not better than I love you, dear Miss Rose.