Elsie, who was daily growing stronger, was delighted at the idea of receiving a visitor, and Reg, who brought with him a lovely picture-book as a gift from his mother, was a welcome and honoured guest.
The injuries which Elsie had received were happily not of a permanent nature, as was feared, although many weeks, perhaps months, must elapse ere she would be able to run about as usual.
Owing to their mother's influence, the three boys gradually received Reg into favour, and acting upon little peace-loving Gwennie's suggestion, they found to their surprise that the young cousins at York House were after all worth having as friends, and thus ended "The Wars of the Roses."
* * * * *
The morning of Miss Beaumont's departure drew nigh, and with tears and mutual regrets she bade good-bye to The Gables, and set her face towards the New World.
There appeared to be no prospect of any one taking her place, and the question of ways and means at times sorely troubled the widow's heart, but still her faith did not fail her.
One morning, when the future was weighing somewhat heavily upon her mind, the post brought her a letter from Sir Matthew Rose. Opening it with trembling fingers, for it was the first communication she had ever received from him, she read as follows—
"MY DEAR ELIZABETH,
"My son and I are lonely at The Towers, and I feel myself to be growing old and feeble, and in need of a daughter's care.
"I am asking you, therefore, as a favour to come (you and your family) and take up your abode with us. Please do not let pride stand in the way. I am only too well aware that this is a tardy recognition, but remember to err is human, and to forgive—which is your prerogative—divine. We are 'needing' you, and realize that your presence will do much to brighten our lives. Your little daughter shall have the best medical attention, and I will gladly undertake the future of your sons, for Gilbert's sake and your own.
"Anxiously awaiting your reply,
"Believe me,
"Yours affectionately,
"MATTHEW ROSE."
"'We are needing you.'" This phrase in the letter completely won the widow's heart, and thankfully she accepted the baronet's generous offer.
When the news reached York House, for a while Mrs. Wilfrid was both resentful and rebellious.