"Good-morning, my dears: I am sorry you cannot come in and sit a while," was her pleasant greeting. Then she shook hands with Max and kissed Lulu.
"I heard you were not well yesterday, Lulu: I hope you feel quite so this morning?"
"Yes, ma'am, thank you."
"I heard from Ion before breakfast, and am delighted that baby is still improving, as, no doubt, you are, both of you."
"Yes, indeed!" exclaimed Max.
"And I am gladder than words can tell," said Lulu, a tear rolling quickly down her cheek. "Aunt Elsie, I do love her! I think she is the nicest, sweetest baby I ever saw."
"Yes, my dear; and I have no doubt you intend to be the best of sisters to her."
"Oh, I do! I can't ever make up to her for—for hurting her so, though I did not mean to do it."
"Of course not: you couldn't be so cruel toward any baby, but especially your own sweet little sister," was the gentle, sweet-toned reply. "I am rejoiced, especially for you, my dears, and for your mamma, that your father is going to settle down here; for I know it will add greatly to your happiness, he is such a good husband and father, and you will so enjoy having a home of your own."
"Yes, aunt Elsie: we think it is the best thing that could have happened to us," replied Max.