Emma promised to be careful, and they promised to pay on their return; and these arrangements being completed to their immense satisfaction, the children walked happily back to Rosemount, eagerly discussing their plans on the way.

At the same time Elsli came silent and alone along the little foot-path by the river.

All three came from the same place, but they knew nothing of each other, for Elsli had not come out of the house till after the others had reached the road.

In the garden they met, and asked each other whether the supper-bell had rung.

As they spoke they heard it; and, running up the stone steps, they sat down to supper without farther questions, and each was glad that the others asked none..