So they had a very happy breakfast together, and joked and laughed, and forgot Aunt Agnes and her queer ways. The only person who slightly missed her was Magsie, on whom she had bestowed a whole sovereign, informing her at the same time that she, Margaret, might expect good tidings before long.
'Whatever does she mean?' thought Magsie. 'She has plenty to say. I didn't tak' to her at first, but pieces o' gold are no to be had every day o' the week, and she has a generous heart, although I can see the master is not much taken wi' her.'
The Flower Girls and their father were rowing on the lake, when a shout from the shore called them to stop. There stood Mrs Constable; there stood Mrs Macintyre; there also stood in a group Jasper, Garnet, Emerald, Sapphire, and Opal.
'Come ashore, come ashore,' called Jasper; and the boat was quickly pulled toward the little landing-stage.
The ten happy children romped away together.
'Isn't it good that she's gone?' said Hollyhock. 'Isn't she a downright horror?'
'But mother says she means well,' said Jasper; 'and who could be nicer than Mrs Macintyre?'
'I suppose not,' said Hollyhock. 'Is she going to stay with Aunt Cecil long, Jasper?'
'Long? Why, don't you know the news?'
'What? Oh, do tell us!' cried Delphinium.