“No, she hasn’t,” said Tom.
“Her name’s going to be Catharine Ellinor,” said Letty, forgetting her trouble for a moment. “That’s grandmamma’s name.”
“Oh, that’s a very pretty name!” said Christie. “She’s a dear baby, I am sure.” But Letty had no more to say.
“Tell us about Rover,” said Tom.
“Oh, yes! I must tell you about Rover. ‘Once upon a time—’” And then came the story. Never did dog meet with such wonderful adventures before, and never was a story listened to with greater delight. Even Letty forgot her vexation, and listened eagerly. In the midst of it Nelly entered, carrying little Harry in her arms. At the sight of him every trace of ill-humour vanished from Letty’s face. Running to meet them she clasped her arms round her little brother.
“Where are his shoes, Nelly?” she said, stooping to kiss his rosy little feet.
“What a sweet child!” exclaimed Christie. “I hope he won’t be afraid of me.”
He was very lovely, with his flushed cheeks and tangled curls, and not in the least afraid of anything in the world. He looked out of his bright blue eyes as frankly and fearlessly at Christie as if she had been his nurse all his life. She placed him on her knee while Letty tied his shoes.
“Are you to be nurse?” asked her fellow-servant Nelly.
“I don’t know. I would like the place,” said Christie.