Diana remained at the cottage until Miss Flint returned; then, being as eager to leave as Jerusha was to have the house to herself, she was not slow in taking the hint that her company could be dispensed with, and left for the village.
In the kindness of her heart she went out of her way to call at the miller’s to tell Hilda of the changes in her home.
“Yes, I know,” assented the little girl; “she told me she was going to heaven and will see my father and mother and Uncle Ashley.”
“You are to go back now, Hilda,” said Diana, her eyes filling with tears. “Miss Flint is so kind as to take care of you until Mrs. Warfield comes.”
The miller’s little girl saw her safely to the cottage gate, and bade her good-bye with a parting kiss.
“What brought you here until I sent for you?” exclaimed Miss Flint angrily, as Hilda stepped in. “I am just going out.”
“Diana told me to come,” said Hilda, cowering; “she said you were so kind as to take care of me.”
“Just like the meddlesome wretch! Now I will have to stay at home or drag you along with me.”
Hilda began to cry, and Miss Flint could scarcely restrain herself from laying violent hands upon her, while every nerve thrilled.
“Stop crying instantly, or I will give you something to cry for!” she said harshly.