"I see. Well, dearie, we will go to the early service, which is not so long."
"And then come home and have the Santa Claus part of it for dessert; that will be nice. I wish the doctor would come soon; I want to ask him somefing."
The doctor did come soon. Indeed, there was scarcely a day after this which did not see his stalwart form turning into the quiet street, and the affection between the grave man and the pretty child grew apace, so that many confidences passed between them.
CHAPTER III
One afternoon the two were cosily occupying one big chair, in the absence of Mrs. Temple, who was glad to leave her treasure so well satisfied to stay at home, while she attended to some Christmas shopping.
"Let's talk about Christmas," said Elinor, cuddling down by the side of the doctor, after watching her mother out of sight.