Chapter IX.
EMMA'S VICTORY.
When Emma Cavendish turned back into the house she went up into the old lady's room with the intention of breaking to her the news of Katherine Fanning's widowhood and destitution, and of her own desire to invite her to come and live at Blue Cliffs.
She found Mrs. Cavendish just finishing her nice breakfast with Aunt Moll in attendance upon her.
"Here, take away the service now," said the old lady, putting down her empty coffee-cup. "And now, Emma, I am very glad you have come. I feel quite low about parting with Mary. What an angel she is!"
"Cheer up, grandma! We shall have another addition to our family circle soon," said Emma, pleasantly.
"Who is coming, my dear?" inquired Mrs. Cavendish, with all the curiosity of a recluse.
"Oh, another lady!" slowly answered Miss Cavendish, to give Aunt Moll time to get out of the room with her breakfast tray.
And when the old woman had shut the door behind her, Emma said:
"Dear grandma, you will be very much surprised to hear who it is that is coming."