“Now, is that a compliment or isn’t it?” said Alison, taking the baby and looking down at it with interest.
“I reckon he meant it for one,” said Louisa smiling.
“But what do you call her?” asked Christine. “Let me take her, Alison.”
“Oh, let me have her a little while,” returned Alison, sitting down with the child.
“Well,” said Louisa, “I thought it over and I remember that Mis’ Brown was real good to me, though I don’t believe I appreciated it at the time, and I thought it would please her if I give her name to my baby. I always intended to give her yours, Miss Tina, so we’ve called her Miranda Christine, and Ira thinks it’s a fine name.” She spoke proudly and the girls could but agree that it was a fine name.
“Give her straight to me,” said Christine. “She is my namesake.” And Alison reluctantly gave up her charge.
“How is the new house getting on?” asked Louisa. “Ira says they had a big time at the raising.”
“We did have a big time,” said Alison; “I never had more fun in my life. The house is as nice as can be. You must bring the baby and come over to spend the day as soon as you can. We have heaps to tell you. Doesn’t Steve look well? Would you ever believe he was the same man who came back looking so miserable?”
“He does look well,” agreed Louisa. “When is the wedding to be? I have heard we may expect it soon.”
“That’s just what we came over for to-day; to invite you and Ira.”