“That is right, my love. You have grown a good deal, Augusta. I see you are going to take after your father’s family; you will be tall.”
“I am glad of that,” said Augusta. “I would rather be tall than short; it gives one more power in the world.”
“You silly child,” laughed her aunt; “what do you want with power?”
“I love to feel that I have power, Aunt Jessie. I always like to exercise it when I can.”
“Well, the time may come when it will be useful, but at present your lot in life is to obey your elders, and to be happy with your young companions.”
“Of course, Aunt Jessie—of course. May I sit on this little footstool at your feet, and may I hold your hand?”
“Indeed you may, my darling child. I am so happy to have you with me for a little!”
“Thank you, Aunt Jessie.”
“It must be lonely for you, dear, up in the schoolroom at present, but the three girls will be in to supper; they have gone to Shirley Woods—a long-promised treat.”
“The three girls!” said Augusta, raising her calm blue eyes. “Then there are four girls now in the house?”