"He is getting very old, Arthur."
"Yes, past eighty, but with care he may live to be a hundred; he has a naturally vigorous constitution. And how he mellows with age, Elsie! He has become a very lovely Christian, as humble and simple-hearted as a little child."
"Yes," she said turning toward him eyes filled with glad tears, "and he has become very dear to me. I think he loves us all—especially papa—and that we shall have a happy winter together."
"I don't doubt it; in fact, I quite envy you the prospect."
"Oh could you not go with us to stay at least a few weeks? We should all be so very glad to have you."
"Quite impossible," he said, shaking his head rather ruefully. "I'm greatly obliged, and should be delighted to accept your invitation, but it isn't often a busy doctor can venture to take such a holiday."
"I'm very sorry. But you think there is no doubt that grandpa will be willing to go?"
"He'll not hesitate a moment if he hears Uncle Horace is to go. He clings to him now more than to any other earthly creature."
"Papa is in the library; shall we join him and hear what he thinks of your plan?" said Elsie, rising.
"By all means," returned Arthur, and they did so.