A firm, quick step came up the gravel walk, and Mr. Dinsmore stood looking down upon them.
"Why, what is wrong? not bad news from home, I hope, Milly?"
"No, uncle; they are all well, and everything going smoothly so far as I can learn from my letter," she said, brushing away her tears and forcing a smile.
"What then?" he asked, "Elsie has not been troubling you, I hope?"
"Oh no, no, she never does that!"
"Breakfast has been announced; shall we go and partake of it?"
"If you please, sir. I am quite ready," Mildred answered, as she rose and took his offered arm.
"Bring the child," he said to Chloe; then walking on. "What is wrong, Milly? there must have been a cause for the tears you have certainly been shedding."
"I am summoned home, uncle, and glad as I shall be to see it and all the dear ones there, again, I can't help feeling sorry to leave you all."
"I hope not. Dear me, I wish we could keep you always!" he exclaimed. "But when and how are you to go?"