"My dear Fleda, I never had your superiority to the ordinary weaknesses of human nature--I can stand one sugar-bowl, but I confess myself overcome by a dozen. How we have all wanted to see you, Fleda! and papa; you have captivated papa; and he says--"
"Never mind--don't tell me what he says," said Fleda.
"There--that's your modesty, that everybody raves about--I wish I could catch it. Fleda, where did you get that little Bible?--while I was waiting for you I tried to soothe my restless anticipations with examining all the things in all the rooms;--where did you get it?"
"It was given me a long while ago," said Fleda.
"But it is real gold on the outside!--the clasps and all--do you know it? it is not washed."
"I know it," said Fleda smiling; "and it is better than gold inside."
"Wasn't that mamma's favourite Mr. Olmney that parted from you at the gate?" said Constance after a minute's silence.
"Yes."
"Is he a favourite of yours too?"
"You must define what you mean by a favourite?" said Fleda gravely.