"Oh yes," cried the child before Miss Vyvyan had time to reply, "I have the dearest mama in the world and we do love her so, don't we Anna?"
Cora in her enthusiasm let go Miss Vyvyan's hand, and taking hold of the officer's,
"Come," she said, "come with us and see her, and then you will love her, too."
Miss Vyvyan was about to suggest that probably the strange gentleman would prefer not to accept Cora's invitation until he had received one from her mother, when he interposed by asking Cora what her mother's name was.
"Why, it is mama," she replied.
"Yes, fair one; but she has another name."
"Oh, you mean Ada, that is what Anna calls her."
"She is Mrs. Carleton," said Miss Vyvyan.
"Great Heaven! my prayer is answered," exclaimed the officer. Turning quickly away for a few paces he covered his face with his hands, and his stalwart frame trembled with emotion.
"What is the matter," said Cora, "are you unhappy; never mind, do not be sorry, papa."