“I shouldn’t wonder but you would prefer another escort, before that time comes. I say, Menie, did anybody ever tell you how bonny you are growing?”
Menie laughed, softly.
“Oh! yes. Emily told me when she came home; and so did Harry. And you have told me so yourself to-day, already.”
“You vain fairy! and do you really think you’re bonny?”
“Janet says, I’m like Aunt Marian, and she was bonnier even than mamma.”
“Like Aunt Marian!” Graeme remembered Janet’s words with a pang. But she strove to put the thought from her; and with so many bright faces round her, it was not difficult to do to-night. Surely if Marian were ill, and in danger, the rest would see it too. And even Janet’s anxiety had been at rest for a while. Menie was better now. How merry she had been with her brothers for the last few days. And though she seemed very weary to-night, no wonder. So were they all. Even Rosie, the tireless, was half asleep on Arthur’s knee, and when all the pleasant bustle was over, and they were settled down in their old quiet way, her sister would be herself again. Nothing so terrible could be drawing near, as the dread which Janet had startled herewith that day.
“Emily,” said Harry, “why do you persist in going back to that horrid school? Why don’t you stay at home, and enjoy yourself?”
“I’m not going to any horrid school,” said Emily.
“You can’t make me believe that you would rather be at school than at home, doing as you please, and having a good time with Rose and Menie here.”
Emily laughed. “I would like that; but I like going back to school too.”