“Yes, for the present.”
“Then let us go into the parlor. It is so much pleasanter there. Come, Dr. Peters.”
They left the room, and went into the cheerful, little parlor, usually occupied by Mrs. Force, and having her worktable and low chair in the corner between the open wood fire and the side window, with its pleasant view of the lawn and the woods.
Scarcely were they seated, however, when little Elva came in, first gave her hand to the old minister, who drew her toward him and kissed her cheek, and then went to her mother, and said:
“Mamma, Odalite is wide, wide awake now. She has had some tea, and she wants to see you.”
“Very well, dear; I will go to her. You will excuse me, Dr. Peters?”
The rector replied with a bow and a smile.
The lady took the hand of the little girl, and they left the room together.
When they reached Odalite’s chamber, Mrs. Force was surprised to see her eldest daughter up and dressed, and sitting in the armchair before the fire.
“My darling, I am so glad to see you so well recovered!” exclaimed the lady, pressing a kiss upon the forehead of her child, and then drawing a chair and seating herself by her side.