“Oh, I love you so much!” said Nancy; and she put up both her soft arms, and kissed Mrs. Richmond with passionate fervour on her cheeks.
“That is very pleasant to hear, my dear little girl; and I think we may all say with truth that we love you. Now, what is the trouble, dear?”
“Oh, there is a trouble!” said Nan; “and I must ask you a question.”
“You are going to tell me about the trouble?”
“I wish I could, but I cannot. I have only just heard something, and I want you to explain, please, oh, so very badly! Who are the Asprays, Mrs. Richmond?”
“The Asprays!” said Mrs. Richmond. “What Asprays?”
“The Asprays who have the right to adopt me.”
“No, darling—no. You are my little girl, adopted by me. They have no right over you unless you will it.”
“But who are they?”
“Rich people from Virginia.”