"Certainly," answered the wife, quietly.
Elsie looked triumphant; she was always elated at having her own way, whether the thing was of importance or not.
"We need not think about it now," she said, demurely; "it will be warm and pleasant for several weeks yet."
"But you must be careful," returned Mellen, "dear child; I cannot reach home safely only to see your health give way."
"Oh, nonsense, Grant, don't begin to fidget! I am ever so well; make him believe it, Bessie."
"I think so," Bessie replied; "you are stronger than you look."
"Elsie requires great care," said Mellen, decidedly.
Elsie did not look displeased; she liked being considered weak and delicate; it made her more petted and at liberty to indulge her numberless caprices in the most interesting manner.
The family had that evening entirely to themselves, and it passed off very pleasantly. Elizabeth and Elsie joined in the old songs Mellen loved, and they all talked and laughed gaily, forgetful of the clouds that lowered above that house.
The next morning when the family met in the breakfast-room the post had arrived, and Dolf presented Elsie and Elizabeth with several letters; only the journals were left for Mellen, and he said, laughingly: