Truly "Gladswood," for upon every side arose some sight to make glad the heart.
There stood the warm-hearted and energetic mistress, her genuine soul stamped upon every lineament of the plain but inviting face.
"And you did make out to come, Marguerite!" exclaimed Mrs.
Montgomery giving the girl a warm, hearty kiss.
"Yes, we've got her now and the city folks can do without her until we are ready."
At this ambiguous declaration the gallant Hal gave his head a defiant toss and gathering up an array of sundry feminine indispensibles made towards a side entrance where he deposited the said articles.
"Cousin Marguerite come out and see the calves." We have two of the loveliest little creatures with large eyes and such pretty white spots! And you would think they had their foreheads banged!"
"Well, they must be very pretty, Jimmie," said Marguerite, laughing heartily at the lad's description.
"Now children do let Cousin Marguerite have time to draw her breath before you tease her to death about your stock," said Aunt Hester with an amused look upon her face.
"Cousin Marguerite will excuse herself to the company," cried Jennie, motioning Marguerite to follow her and the latter was soon snugly ensconced in the cosiest and most inviting chamber that one ever beheld.
It was not the spare room but a smaller one adjoining that of Cousin
Jennie.