Florence told the story in a very ladylike fashion, giving it the air of a romance.
"Why, Florence, that is quite an adventure. And she wants to adopt you?" Mrs. Howard exclaimed, much interested.
"Do you know any thing about this Mrs. Osgood?" asked Mr. Howard.
Florence used her limited knowledge to its fullest extent.
"Oh! I believe I know something about Mrs. Duncan. Dr. Carew was attending the boy. I have heard him speak of them all. Isn't Mrs. Osgood something of an invalid,—rather full of whims?"
"She is not very strong," Florence admitted.
"But it is a remarkable offer," rejoined Mrs. Howard. "And to have one of the family so well provided for, seems like an especial providence."
"But to have her go away," said Granny. "To give her up, and never see her again!"
"That does seem unkind. Perhaps it would not be quite as bad as that."
Mr. Howard studied Florence attentively for a few moments. He had always considered her rather above her station.