They did not return with her to Benvourd, as they had lost so much time, and were to await the carriage again at a house not far from the pass.
So Nora returned as she had gone out—alone. She looked so bright and merry, as in her eager way she related the day's work, that her uncle and aunt smiled to each other as they thought of Mrs. Ross's idea that she was "moped" in her Highland home. All were much interested as she related that nurse had at last heard of her wandering grandson; and tears of sympathy filled Mrs. Macleod's eyes when she told of the dying child who had asked her to sing about heaven, and her thoughts turned to her little daughter so early called to glory.
In the evening Mr. Macleod gave Nora Mrs. Ross's letter, and told her, he and her aunt gave her full liberty to accept the invitation, if she felt at all inclined to do so.
"We will miss our bright sunbeam," he said, "but only desire that in this matter you should please yourself."
Nora read the letter, laughing over the idea of her moping. "Why, uncle, what does she mean? I am as happy as I can possibly be; and I have so many things to interest me, and people to love, I could not manage to be dull."
Then she said seriously, "Uncle if I am to answer this invitation as I wish, I would really rather not go—at the present, at all events. I know I would have many temptations there to which I am not exposed here; and although I believe Jesus would enable me to resist them, still—" and she lowered her eyes as she spoke—"I am only a beginner yet in the Christian life, and I am fearful I might not prove a loyal banner-bearer in that household. No, uncle; if you and auntie will keep me yet a bit, I would rather not go; though I do wish to go to Mrs. Forbes' if I may. I do so love the dear old lady; and the girls are so nice also. Dull, indeed I only wish Clara were one half as happy a girl as I am! Uncle, I do think people can't be really happy till they have learned to love Jesus. I am sure, when I think of what I was two years ago and what I am now, I can sing truly—"
"'Oh happy day, that fixed my choice
On thee, my Saviour and my God!'"
Her uncle drew her into his arms and kissed her tenderly.
"Thank God you can say that, Nora. I do believe your dear mother's prayers are answered for you, that you might be led to seek after the wisdom that is better far than gold and rubies."