"It will, perhaps, put him in remembrance of old times," said Mrs. Collins.
"Yes, and perhaps make him conceited enough to fancy himself twenty years younger than he really is," added Mrs. Charlston.
"O, yes, I'm sure pa will be infinitely happy," exclaimed Eliza.
"Yes, and so will Fred," added Amelia with a sly wink.
It was, therefore, agreed upon that little Richard, for so he was named, should go to his new home that very evening. Tea being over, he was dressed in his best clothes. A couple of carpet bags were filled with other necessary articles. All things being in readiness Mrs. Charlston and her daughters took their departure, accompanied with Clara and the child.
When they arrived home Mr. Charlston and the others of his family were at tea, Mrs. C. entered carrying Richard in her arms, followed by the others.
"Look here, old lad, and guess what I have got, as a present for my good behavior this afternoon," exclaimed Mrs. Charlston.
"Only a baby," said Mr. C. "You seem as much excited as if you had found a purse of gold."
"Just look at the sweet, little, silvery-mouthed hazle-eyed, rosy-cheeked cherub," said Mrs. C.
"'Tis little Richard, I declare," shouted Charlotte, springing forth to see him. "What a sweet little fellow he is. Just come, pa, and see the little darling." "O, Fred come and see him, he is your very picture, what a dear lovely angel he is," &c.