From the sublimity of her momentary reverie, Miss Worth's gentle voice aroused Belle-Ann.
"Belle-Ann," she said, "would a bit of news before breakfast be distasteful?"
The girl cast a quick, expectant look toward Miss Worth, whose face was symbolical of still another revelation.
"I can bear anything," answered Belle-Ann. "I can now appreciate more than ever any glad news—life can hold no sorrow now that I cannot endure bravely—don't hesitate to tell me—I am unafraid."
"Well—it is not by any means fearful news, my dear; on the contrary, it's the most delightful surprise imaginable—the only thing I fear is that you will not forgive us for what will doubtless present itself to your mind as a rank conspiracy."
Belle-Ann laughed and squeezed the hand that crept into hers.
"When you are concerned, you are forgiven anything in advance—you-all couldn't commit anything, Miss Worth, that I could hold against you a second," she assured, laughingly.
The older woman fell pensive for a moment.
"Belle-Ann—I have known this for a long time—Colonel Tennytown asked me to acquaint you with this when I thought fit—I think the proper time is now at hand—Colonel Tennytown was your mother's father, Belle-Ann."