In the meantime Maud was giving Miss Leslie an important bit of news.
“We’re making you some wedding presents,” she announced, giving the visitor’s hand an affectionate squeeze. “I won’t tell you what they are, because they’re going to be a surprise.”
Mr. Winslow caught the words, and turned anxiously to his mother.
“What does she mean?” he inquired, sharply. “They haven’t been told, have they?”
“I am sorry to say they have,” Mrs. Winslow answered. “It was not my fault. I have said nothing, in accordance with your request, and neither has Kate. All the trouble has come through that meddlesome gossip, Lizzie. I always told you she was not the proper person to have the care of children, but you would never listen.”
Mr. Winslow looked annoyed, but before he could speak, Molly put into words the question that had been filling all their minds.
“Where is she?” she demanded, looking in astonishment from one face to another.
“Where is who, dear?” Miss Leslie asked, gently.
“Why, the stepmother,” said Molly. “Lizzie said Papa was bringing her home.”
Miss Leslie laughed.