They were delighted with the loving thanks which they received, and with seeing their work placed cosily by the side of Ada's.
Walter, who was standing close behind holding Tom's frame safely on one of the little beds, now said to Christina, "Did you hear the sound of a tea-bell?"
She smiled, and said, "I think I did; but they must go round the garden first, or it will be dark. What a beautiful October day it is!"
For it was the first of October, the month that was the last of Walter's holiday.
They then went round the pretty garden and visited Mrs. Fenton's cottage, where Mrs. Arundel would have liked to stay to have a chat with the dear old woman; but Christina stood beckoning to them, and they had to cut their wanderings short.
"Buttered toast is not nice cold," she said, "so let us begin, dear friends."
They had a very happy tea-time; and there was plenty to talk of, and many questions to ask Christina about what she would do, and how she would arrange, while Miss Arbuthnot sat next to her niece, and looked very happy and contented.
"Aunt Mary likes my orphanage better than she expected," she said, laying her hand on her aunt's.
"Yes, my dear, I do; and I feel pleased to try and help in any way. I have no doubt when Christina gets more children, our hands will be very full."
"No fear of there being plenty of children when once you are ready," said Walter.