She went every morning afterward while her vacation lasted, always taking him something in the way of fruit or flowers, and cheering him with her lively chatting, until he began to look for her coming as the chief event of the day.
Sometimes they would wander together through the beautiful grounds of Mr. Richards’ place, or, finding a cozy nook, Star would take some interesting book and read to him; and as the week went by, he appeared to improve in health and to grow more contented with his lot.
He continued to remain at the lodge, in spite of the fact that the company had all departed, and there was now plenty of room in the mansion.
Mr. Richards had gone West on a prolonged business trip, and, of course, could not use his influence as to any change; while Mrs. Richards appeared to ignore his presence entirely, unless she came upon him unexpectedly, when she would treat him with indifferent politeness.
Josephine’s attitude toward him was one of proud disdain, although once she professed great friendship for him; but now he was nothing more than an aged, decrepit man—a sort of “cumberer of the ground,” and simply tolerated because it would be considered inhuman to cast him out at that time of life.
In September Mrs. Richards and her daughter went to Long Branch for a change, leaving the household in charge of Mrs. Blunt.
Star began school again, going back and forth by rail, as the town house would not be opened again until October.
This made it hard for her, because she was obliged to go so early and return so late; but as her comfort was not a matter which usually demanded much consideration, and she made no complaint, the fact remained unnoticed.
During the absence of the family, Mr. Rosevelt frequented the house, for it was much more comfortable through those hot September days than his contracted room at the lodge, and he was glad to avail himself of the privilege of the well-stocked library to while away the long hours of Star’s absence.
In the evening she would entertain him with her music, while on Saturday they both felt like children out of school; and thus day by day they grew to feel a deep affection for each other.