"I beg your pardon," said Margaret, drawing back, "I did not know you were busy."
"Oh! come in, come in, little one," said Mr. Warde, "we were talking no secrets. Ah! you want the second volume. Why, what a reader you are!"
"And will you not come nearer the fire, while our good friend is finding your book?" said Miss Gage to Margaret.
"Thank you," returned Margaret, drawing towards the fire, and ungloving her beautiful hands.
"Do you like this cold weather?" asked Miss Gage, kindly.
"Yes, when it is a hard frost," returned Margaret; "but I am looking forward very much to summer time."
"You will find the neighbourhood beautiful in spring," said Miss Gage, "and I think Mr. Grey has the prettiest place in the county."
"I am glad of that," said Margaret, "I have not half explored it yet."
"I dare say you have plenty of amusements in-doors," said Miss Gage, "I am sure you have an unfailing one if you are fond of reading."
"Yes, reading and music," said Margaret, "and the house is kept so warm, that I can play wherever I like on wet days."