All well at Ion ?" "Yes, sah, an' mighty busy wid de necessary preparations for Miss Wilet's weddin'." "What an elegant, comfortable, easy-rolling carriage!" remarked Zoe, leaning back against the cushions, "it's a pleasant change from the cars." "I am glad you find it so, dear," Edward responded, gazing upon her with fond, admiring eyes.
"Yes, but--O Edward, how will I be received ?" she cried, creeping closer to him and leaning her head on his shoulder.

"I can hardly help wishing I could just be alone with you always." "Don't be afraid, dearest," he said, putting his arm round her and kissing her tenderly again and again.

"When you know them all you will be very far from wishing that." The whole family were gathered upon the veranda when the carriage drove up.

As it stopped, the door was thrown open, and Edward sprang out.

There was a general exclamation, of surprise and delight, a simultaneous springing forward to give him an affectionate, joyous greeting; then a wondering murmur and exchange of inquiring glances, as he turned to hand out a slight girlish figure, and drawing her hand within his arm, came up the veranda steps.
Elsie stood nearest of all the waiting group, heart and eyes full of joyous emotion at sight of the handsome face and manly form so like his father's.
"Darling mother!" he exclaimed, throwing his free arm about her and giving her an ardent kiss.