“And indeed, Miss, that’s a true word of yours,” said Dixen in a whisper.
Frederica looked up quickly.
“Mama, I am going to ask Dixen. He is a man of sense. Dixen, don’t you think it is quite time that I should be considered a grown-up young lady? I am fifteen, and mama needs me at home. I am very little, I know,” added she, deprecatingly, as the old man let a queer glance rest on her. He answered with great gravity, however.
“Good gear is ay in small bundles; and one does not need to be a giantess to be a comfort to one’s mother.”
“Just so,” Said Frederica, nodding well pleased. “I am fifteen, and one ought to have some sense at fifteen. Mama, are you keeping your promise? You know you are only to think of pleasant things. You are sure you are glad you came?”
“Very glad, dear.”
“And not all for Lina’s sake?”
“No,” said her mother, laughing; “a little for your sake.”
“Oh, I hope it will be fine every day while we are at home. We shall drive every day. Do you like it, Lina?”
“Yes,” said Selina softly. Selina’s “yes” said more than other people’s protestations.