'You never asked me. The family I have long known; I esteem them highly, and I think you will be much pleased with them, especially with the eldest daughter.'
Mary was silent; she wished to ask several questions, but that eldest daughter—somehow the words struck a chill to her heart; she was all at once very thoughtful.
'Your brother and I are anxious to have things arranged before they get here, and Sam particularly wishes that his father and all of you should be there when they arrive, and I think,' said James, 'as you are to be such near neighbors, it would be well to show them all kindness.'
'Oh, by all means; certainly, we will do every thing we can to welcome them, as they are friends of yours; but—'
'But what, Mary?'
'Oh, you cannot be sure that they will wish to be very intimate with us, our circumstances will be so different.'
'They are a family, Mary, that do not regard such distinctions. You will love them—I know you will. I hope to enjoy their society much, and I am sure you will too.'
'I will be there, as soon as I can, with the key; and if you are all willing, we will go to work, and arrange things a little for them.'
'Oh, certainly; we will go with pleasure. Good morning.'
James accompanied her to the door.