"I must get used to that, my dear."
"Why, mamma? Wherever we have been, we have always been together. Mrs. Bluestone was quite unhappy because you would not come. They are so good-natured! I wish you would go there."
"I am better here, my dear." Then there was a pause for a few moments. "But I am glad that you have come home this evening."
"Of course, I should come home."
"I have something special to say to you."
"To me, mamma! What is it, mamma?"
"I think we will wait till after dinner. The things are here now. Go up-stairs and take off your hat, and I will tell you after dinner."
"Mamma," Lady Anna said, as soon as the maid had left the room, "has old Mr. Thwaite been here?"
"Yes, my dear, he was here."
"I thought so, because you have something to tell me. It is something from him?"