{Illustration: “COME TO MAMMA."}
Robert Day and Corinne looked at each other in apprehension. They pictured a fearful procession coming in. Even their guardian gave an anxious start. She parted her lips to beg the Quaker not to admit any one, but the request was absurd.
Their innocent host piloted straight to the dining-room a woman whom Robert and Corinne knew directly. They had seen her in the show, and recalled her appearance many a time afterwards when speculating about Carrie's parents.
“Here you are!” she exclaimed to the child in a high key. “My poor little pet! Come to mamma!”
CHAPTER XIX. FAIRY CARRIE DEPARTS.
Neither William Sebastian, the Quaker landlord, nor his wife, returning with the damson preserves in her hand—not even Grandma Padgett and her family, looked at Fairy Carrie more anxiously than the lawyer.
“Is this your mother, Sissy?” inquired Grandma Padgett.
“No,” replied the child; A blank, stupid expression replacing her excitement. “Yes. Mamma?”
The woman sat down and took Carrie upon her lap, twisting her curls and caressing her.