From which Louisiana gathered that it was the editors who were so overwhelmed, and she could not help sympathizing with them in secret. There was something in the picture of their unavailing remorse which touched her, despite her knowledge of the patent fact that they deserved it and could expect nothing better. She was quite glad when Olivia brightened up, as she did presently.
"Laurence is handsomer than most of them, and has a more distinguished air," she said. "He is very charming. People always say so."
"I wish I could see him," ventured Louisiana.
"You will see him if you stay here much longer," replied Miss Ferrol. "It is quite likely he will come to Oakvale."
For a moment Louisiana fluttered and turned pale with pleasure, but as suddenly she drooped.
"I forgot," she faltered. "You will have to be with him always, and I shall have no one. He won't want me."
Olivia sat and looked at her with deepening interest. She was thinking again of a certain whimsical idea which had beset her several times since she had attired her protégée in the cream-colored robe.
"Louise," she said, in a low, mysterious tone, "how would you like to wear dresses like mine all the rest of the time you are here?"
The child stared at her blankly.
"I haven't got any," she gasped.