"Oh, how lovely!" Tessa gazed at him with shining eyes. "Is it here now? May I see it? Is the angel still here?"
"No, the angel has gone. But the baby is left. It is Stella's very own, and she is to take care of it."
"Oh, I hope she'll let me help her!" murmured Tessa in awe-struck accents. "Does Uncle Everard know yet?"
"Yes. He and I got here in the night two or three hours after the baby arrived. He was very tired, poor chap. He is resting."
"And the baby?" breathed Tessa.
"Mrs. Ralston is taking care of the baby. I expect it's asleep," said Bernard. "So we'll keep very quiet."
"But she'll let me see it, won't she?" said Tessa anxiously.
"No doubt she will, Princess. But I shouldn't disturb them yet. It's early you know."
"Mightn't I just go in and kiss Uncle Everard?" pleaded Tessa. "I love him so very much. I'm sure he wouldn't mind."
"Let him rest a bit longer!" advised Bernard. "He is worn out. Sit down here, on the arm of my chair, and tell me about yourself! Where have you come from?"