"Oh, my!" exclaimed Gertrude.
"I wish you all happiness, dear uncle," said Maude, rising from her seat, crossing to her uncle, and bending down to kiss him as he sat.
"So do I, dear uncle," said Gertrude, following her sister.
"Thank you, my dears," said Mr. Creswell; "thank you very much. I said before that nothing should make any difference in your position here, nor in my intentions for the future--nor will it. Besides, it isn't as if it were a stranger--you've known Marian so long----"
"Oh yes, we've known Miss Ashurst for some time!" said Maude, with emphasis.
"Exactly!" said Mr. Creswell. "As I say, it isn't as if it were a stranger. Marian has been domiciled with us now for some time, and there is no reason why, so far as you and she are concerned, things should not go on exactly as they have done! At least, I know this to be her wish and mine," he added, after a short pause.
"Whatever is your wish, uncle, I'm sure Gertrude and I will be delighted to fulfil----"
"Delighted!" interposed Gertrude.
"And I don't think Miss Ashurst will find us give her any trouble."
"Miss Ashurst! Why not speak of her as Marian, my dear?" said Mr. Creswell.