"Are you my Cousin John Oakley?" she said, doubtfully.
"Yes. I did not hear till just now of your loss," said John. "How is your mother?"
"She is not very well. Come in, Cousin John. She will be glad to see you."
John was ushered into a small sitting-room, where he found his aunt seated in a chair by the window, sewing on a black dress for one of the children.
"Here's Cousin John, mother," said Martha.
An expression of pleasure came to Mrs. Berry's pale face.
"I am very glad to see you, John," she said. "You were very kind to come. Is your stepmother well?"
"Quite well," said John. "But I do not come directly from home."
"Indeed! How does that happen?" asked his aunt.