Lucy had several brothers, but was an only daughter, and a very great pet, especially with her father.
Elsie watched them with a wistful look and a strange aching at her heart.
But presently Mr. Carrington set Lucy down and turning to her, gave her a shake of the hand, and then a kiss, saying, "How do you do this morning, my dear? I'm afraid you are hardly glad to see me, as I come to take Lucy away, for I suppose you have been having fine times together."
"Yes, sir, indeed we have; and I hope you will let her come again."
"Oh! yes, certainly; but the visits must not be all on one side. I shall talk to your papa about it, and perhaps persuade him to let us take you along this afternoon to spend a week at Ashlands."
"Oh! how delightful!" cried Lucy, clapping her hands. "Elsie, do you think he will let you go?"
"I don't know, I'm afraid not," replied the little girl doubtfully.
"You must coax him, as I do my papa," said Lucy.
But at this Elsie only shook her head, and just then the breakfast-bell rang.
Mr. Dinsmore was already in the breakfast-room, and Elsie, going up to him, said, "Good morning, papa."