kissed each other good-bye, and separated, each to confide to her mother the pleasant prospects for the summer.
Alice found the house in rather a confused state. Trunks were in every room; carpets were being taken up; and everything denoted that a change of some sort was about to take place.
Alice flew up the stairs, and, rushing into her mamma’s room, she found her father and mother talking together very earnestly about something.
“Why, mamma,” she exclaimed, “what is the matter? Are we going to the country earlier than usual?”
“Yes, Alice,” said Mrs. Grey, “we are going to the country day after to-morrow. Now that your school is ended there is no need of our staying longer in town, and I am impatient enough to get away from this heat. I don’t suppose you are sorry, are you?” she added, laughing.
“Not very,” said Alice. “I am nearly roasted with this heat, and, mamma, just think, isn’t it too lovely? Susy Lee is going to Sandy Shore for the summer. Her papa has rented a cottage there.”
“Why, that must be the cottage next to us. I heard Mr. Morton had rented it but I did not know to whom. I am so glad. How delightful it will be for you.”