"No," answered the deacon.
"And has he not lost one?"
"Not since he came among us; though his wife, I have understood, always dresses in black. She is a confirmed invalid and seldom seen."
"Then the family do not mingle much in society?" said the colonel.
The deacon shook his head.
"Somewhat aristocratic, probably," remarked the visitor.
"I should judge so," said the deacon. "They don't send Florence to school, but keep three tutors for her at home. She is very accomplished, but rather wilful and proud, they say."
"The effect of over-indulgence, perhaps," said the colonel, rising.
"Will you not honor us with another call?" asked Mrs. Allen.
"With pleasure," answered he, bowing a graceful good-morning to his delighted entertainers.