“There is a message for you, my dear,” she said timidly, fingering the letter.
“For me!” said Una, looking up with a start.
“Yes; Stephen is so thoughtful! He never forgets others even in the midst of his great prosperity. He sends his kind regards, and trusts that you do not miss Warden, and that you will not find our quiet life too dull. He little thinks how we have plunged into gayety already. He would be surprised if he knew it.”
Indeed Stephen would, with a vengeance!
“It is very kind of him,” said Una, in a low voice.
Mrs. Davenant sighed.
“He is always kind and thoughtful. He tells me that he will not be able to come home just yet awhile. It seems that there is a great deal to see to. The estate was greatly neglected, and there’s some business to be done with the lawyers; that keeps him there. But he says he will come as soon as he can, and, meanwhile, I am to make you as happy as I can. I hope I have done that already, dear,” she added, with simple affection.
Una rose and kissed her.
“Indeed, yes; I am very happy.”
Then she turned her face away to hide her tears.