CHAPTER Twenty-second.
"The mother, in her office holds the key Of the soul; and she it is who stamps the coin Of character, and makes the being who would be a savage, But for her gentle cares, a Christian man.
Then crown her queen of the world." -- OLD PLAY The families from the Oaks and Ashlands had been spending the day at Ion.
It was late in the afternoon and while awaiting the call to tea, they had all gathered in the drawing-room, whose windows overlooked the avenue and lawn on one side, on the other a very beautiful part of the grounds, and a range of richly wooded hills beyond.
A pause in the conversation was broken by Mr.Travilla.

"Wife," he said, turning to Elsie, "Cousin Ronald should see Viamede: our old friend here, Mrs.Carrington, needs change of scene and climate; two good things that would not hurt any one present: shall we not invite them all to go and spend the winter with us there ?" "O, yes, yes indeed! what a delightful plan!" she cried with youthful enthusiasm.

"Ah, I hope you will all accept; the place is almost a paradise upon earth, and we would do all in our power to make the time pass agreeably.

Cousin Ronald, don't refuse.

Papa dear, don't try to hunt up objections." "Ah ha! um h'm! I've not the least idea of it, cousin," said the one.
"I am not," said the other, smiling fondly upon her, "but must be allowed a little time to consider." "O papa, don't say no!" cried Rosie.