"The seashore—while my uncle is so ill?" cried the child, a little surprised.
"Yes, Ruby. You must remember your own health is very frail. Your mother is very anxious about you. You will go to the seashore in the care of Mrs. Markham. Will that arrangement please you?"
"Very much," smiled Ruby. "I love Mrs. Markham. Of course I shall take my nurse?"
"Yes, of course," he replied, then inquired, carelessly: "Are you still satisfied with Mary Smith?"
"Oh, yes, Mary is a splendid girl—I do not intend ever to part from her," replied the child, enthusiastically, "I am quite getting over my sulky spells since she came. Mary does not tease and cross me as the others did."
Golden, who had sat sewing quietly by the window, without ever lifting her eyes from her work since Mr. Desmond entered, crimsoned painfully at thus having his attention drawn upon her.
But he took no notice of her except to say patronizingly:
"I am glad you have found such a treasure, Ruby. I hope she will remain with you. Are you willing to accompany Ruby to the seaside, Mary?"
"Yes, sir," she answered, quietly.
"Very well, I will go and see Mrs. Markham now. If she can go by the last of the week I will accompany the party and see you all safely settled before I return south."