A few days later the pleasant summer holiday was at an end; and the lodgings at No. 5 and No. 8 Alma Terrace were vacant.
Marigold gave her presents to the servants on the night of her return home; and next day she paid a visit to Mrs. Barker, who received her with evident pleasure. Marigold presented her with the shell-box, and was pleased to see she was delighted with it.
"I wanted to bring you something from Boscombe," the little girl said, glad to see she had selected an article that evidently met with the old woman's approval, "and I thought this little box would be useful."
"Very useful," Mrs. Barker agreed, with sparkling eyes. "I do feel proud of it. I shall keep it on that little table in front of the window, where it will show."
"Barker sent a message to say she was coming to see you this evening," Marigold said, changing the conversation. "I expect you're longing to see her, aren't you?"
"Indeed, yes, miss!"
"We have been away nearly six weeks," the little girl continued. "Such a happy holiday we have had! Boscombe is a lovely place! I think Barker has enjoyed herself too."
"I am sure she has, miss, for she wrote to me several times whilst you were away, and told me so. I got a neighbour of mine to read the letters."
"Have you seen Mrs. Adams lately?" Marigold inquired.
"Yes, miss. She has been to see me twice. She called one day last week, and asked me if I knew when you were all coming home. I expect you'll be sure to see her soon."