“Well, you can next time,” agreed Linda, smiling. “Now, Aunt Emily, how about something to eat?”
“Certainly, dear,” agreed the latter. “And we ought not to sit out here on the porch, for you girls must be cold. Come into the dining room, and I’ll make some hot cocoa.”
It was while they were drinking this, and eating their cookies, that Linda suddenly remembered the surprise which her aunt had mentioned.
“What is the news you have for Helen?” she inquired.
“Oh, I almost forgot!” exclaimed Miss Carlton. Then, turning to the girl, she asked, “You say that you have recovered your memory, dear? Can you recall a woman named Mrs. Smalley?”
Helen’s eyes lighted up with affection and joy.
“Indeed I can! She’s the very dearest memory I have!” she replied, eagerly.
“Well, dear, she’s here. Up in bed. She arrived yesterday, while we were away—absolutely worn out. It seems that she had trudged miles and miles in search of you. So Anna very wisely put her to bed. She was somewhat rested to-day, but decided not to get up.”
“Can I see her?” demanded Helen.
“I think that she’s asleep.”