There was a deal of work to be done in the next fortnight. Our maid, as usual, was called away, providentially, as Fan used to say of them at any new disappearance, and we succeeded in getting a middle-aged Irish woman, who could wash and iron excellently, but who knew very little about cooking. But mamma said there was always something lacking; and, since she was good and strong, it would do. All these matters were barely settled, when a note came, saying that Louis and Stuart Duncan would be at the station on Friday at four.
Nelly walked over with papa. I had relented a little, and made their apartment bright and sweet with flowers. I had a fancy that I should like Louis the better; he, being an invalid, was, doubtless, gentle; and I wheeled the easy-chair to a view of the most enchanting prospect out of the south window. Then, as usual, I went back to the work of getting supper. There is always so much eating going on in this world, and you need so many dishes to eat it off of! We are not flowers of the field, or fairies, to sup on dew.
“O, there they come—in a carriage!”
Tiny Tim clapped her hands at that, whereupon the baby crowed and laughed.
A hack with two trunks. A bright, curly-haired boy sprang out, and assisted Nelly in the most approved style. Then papa, and a tall, slender young man, looking old for his eighteen years.
It did not seem a prepossessing face to me. The lips were thin, the brow contracted with a fretful expression, the nose undeniably haughty, and the cheeks sunken and sallow. Stuart was so different! red and white, with glittering chestnut hair, and laughing eyes, that were hazel, with a kind of yellowish tint in them, that gave his whole face a sunny look. One warmed to him immediately.
Mamma went to the hall, and we followed; and the introductions took place there.
“Take the trunks up to the room, Mat,” said my father.
The boys bowed, and followed, Stuart casting back a gay glance. Papa took off his hat, kissed the baby, and sat down.
“I was quite shocked to see Louis,” he said, in an anxious tone. “He looks very poorly indeed. We must try our best to nurse him back to health and strength. Rose, there is some more work to do.”