"Desire the pony carriage to be sent round directly," was her order to the servant when he appeared.
Accordingly, in less than half an hour, Iris and Aunt Jane were driving into Madersley. They went straight to the humble house where the Darlings lived. The greater part of the house was given up to little Diana and her nurse.
"Please, Aunt Jane," said Iris, as they approached the door; "may I go into Diana's room by myself? I don't want anyone to be with me when I see her."
"You may have it your way, Iris," said Aunt Jane. "I interfered once, and I believe I did wrong; now you shall have it your own way."
"Thank you, Aunt Jane," answered Iris. She scarcely looked at her aunt; all her thoughts were centered on the mission which she had taken in hand. When the carriage drew up at the humble door, the child ran straight into the house.
"Who may you be, little miss?" said Bessie Darling, who had never seen her before.
"I am the sister of Diana; I am a mother to the others," said Iris.
"Sakes alive!" exclaimed the woman. "You a mother? Why, you poor little mite, you look as if you wanted a deal of mothering yourself."
"Please tell me what room my sister is in," said Iris, removing her hat as she spoke.
Bessie Darling stared at her for a moment, then she pointed to a door. Iris turned the handle and entered the room.