Miss Gastonguay had had a stone wall put around it, and had replaced the old wooden cross with a stately marble one that could be seen gleaming from its gentle hill for miles about the country.
They also made excursions together to the town, and Miss Gastonguay took Derrice in her carriage to return the calls that had been made upon her.
The seven Mrs. Potts, after a family conclave, for they stood or fell together, had resolved to extend the light of their countenances upon Derrice. True, she was not strictly within the circle of those whom they patronised, for society was formed along church lines in Rossignol, and she belonged to the Church of the United Brethren, or the orthodox and unfashionable clan, while they as Unitarians represented the liberal and broad-minded set of the community. However, the blood of the Potts was getting thin, their tribe was becoming more and more reduced, for but few strangers made a permanent home in Rossignol. It was therefore absolutely necessary to introduce some new elements, and they began with the wife of the bank cashier.
A week previous they had all called, and Miss Gastonguay, in her interest in Derrice, even went so far as to humble herself before the seven ladies, and crave forgiveness for her latest sin against them in likening them to the seven wifes of Saint Ives with their seven bags and seven cats. This she did in order to enter their houses with her guest.
She really was growing very much attached to this young girl, yet there were times when her sturdy good-humour ceased, and she shut herself in her room in an unapproachable temper.
Chelda never varied in her treatment of Derrice. She sought her company, she was always good-tempered and agreeable, interested and never jealous, and at frequent intervals made ingenious suggestions that started the girl on her favourite topic of conversation,—her life with her idolised father.
Justin was still away, but one day, after a fortnight's absence, a letter was received from him. Mr. Huntington had been summoned to the bedside of his dying father. Justin was therefore at liberty to return to Rossignol.
Derrice, with eyes full of tears at the thought of Mr. Huntington's affliction, was yet conscious of a singing at her heart at the thought of her husband's return. However, she showed no sign of emotion, and Miss Gastonguay, who had been watching her, said, "I believe that young man has frightened all the spirit out of you."
"What young man?" asked Derrice, in surprise.
"Your husband, of course."