He welcomed them with a smile, and lifting Vi from her pony, held her close to his heart as something very dear and precious.
"My darling," he said, "your face is sad this morning; and no wonder. Yet cheer up, we will hope to see our dear travelers at home again in a few weeks, our poor fading flower restored to bloom and beauty."
He made them sit down and regale themselves with some fine fresh oranges, which he summoned a servant to bring; their grandma, aunt and uncle joined them presently and they were urged to stay to breakfast, but declined. "The little ones must not be left alone this first morning without papa and mamma."
On their return Rosie, a merry, healthy, romping child of five, with a rich creamy complexion, dark hair and eyes, forming a strong contrast to Vi's blonde beauty, came bounding to meet them.
"O, Vi, I've been wanting you! you'll have to be mamma to us now, you know, till our real own mamma comes back. And, Eddie, you'll have to be the papa. Won't he, Vi? Come, let's all go to mamma's dress-room; my verse is ready."
"What is your text, Rosie?" Violet asked when they had reached the room, sitting down and drawing the child to her side.
"Take me on your lap like mamma does and I'll say it."
"Now then," Vi said, complying with the request.
"'When my father and my mother forsake me then the Lord will take me up.'"
"Who taught you that, pet?" asked Vi, with a slight tremble in her low sweet tones.