"Papa!" she cried, throwing her arms about his neck and hugging him tightly, while he kissed her again and again with ardent affection, "oh, have you come? No, I'm your own little Gracie, but not the baby girl now, for there's a little one on mamma's lap. Come, and I'll show you."
"Ah!" he exclaimed, letting her lead him on. "I had not heard, have not had a letter for three or four weeks."
They were at the door. Gracie threw it open. Rose was holding the babe. Violet looked up, started to her feet with a cry of joy, and in an instant was in her husband's arms, weeping for very gladness.
For several moments they were conscious of nothing but the joy of the reunion; then with a sudden recollection she withdrew herself from his arms, took her babe, and laid it in them.
"Another darling," he said gazing tenderly upon it, "another dear little daughter! My love, how rich we are!"
He kissed it, gave it to the waiting nurse, and turned to his wife again.
"Let me help you to the sofa, love," he said.
"Lie down for a little. I fear this excitement will exhaust and injure you."
She let him have his way. He sat down by her side, held her hand, and bent over her in loving anxiety.
"Are you quite well?" he asked.