I mean, of course, John," she said, averting her eyes from a slightly cynical smile on her husband's face, "that it's only natural for young children to be forgetful, and ready to take new impressions." "And as long, dear, as WE are not the subjects of this youthful forgetfulness, and she isn't really finding US as stupid as the rancho," replied her husband cheerfully, "I suppose we mustn't complain." "John, how can you talk such nonsense ?" said Mrs.Peyton impatiently.
"But I have no fear of that," she added, with a slightly ostentatious confidence.

"I only wish I was as sure"-- "Of what ?" "Of nothing happening that could take her from us.

I do not mean death, John,--like our first little one.

That does not happen to one twice; but I sometimes dread"-- "What?
She's only fifteen, and it's rather early to think about the only other inevitable separation,--marriage.

Come, Ally, this is mere fancy.
She has been given up to us by her family,--at least, by all that we know are left of them.