"We have had such a lovely ramble," exclaimed Ada, holding in her hand her pet brother, a sturdy little fellow of six years old.
"I'm not a bit tired," said he, stumping along bravely; "and Ada says we've been six miles."
"Yes, that we have," answered Arthur, "and I think Cecil has done well. So your wee birdie is asleep, Christina?"
"Yes; and I must go and lay her in her cot. Ada, bring Eleanor with you."
Eleanor climbed up into Auntie Ada's arms, and was carried off smiling to her nurse; while Nellie went out to Tom, and asked him if he were ready to come in.
He turned his face up to hers. What a look of affection was in his eyes! "I like being here, Nellie," he said; "and now I have this, I can come in when I like, you know."
He referred to his invalid chair, with its large, easy wheels, which he could move with a touch of his hand.
She smiled in answer, and settling his pillow stood still, looking down upon him.
"You are in pain to-day I fear, dear?" she said softly.
"Only a little."