Fleda answered with a quick change of look and voice that he was much as usual.
"My mother has written me that she will be here by the Europa, which is due to-morrow--I must set off for New York this afternoon; therefore I came so early to Queechy."
Fleda was instinctively pulling off her gardening gloves, as they walked towards the house.
"Aunt Miriam wants to see you, Mr. Carleton--she begged I would ask you to come there some time--"
"With great pleasure--shall we go there now, Elfie?"
"I will be ready in five minutes."
Mrs. Rossitur was alone in the breakfast-room when they went in. Hugh she reported was asleep, and would be just ready to see Mr. Carleton by the time they got back. They stood a few minutes talking, and then Fleda went to get ready.
Both pair of eyes followed her as she left the room and then met with perfect understanding.
"Will you give your child to me, Mrs. Rossitur?" said the gentleman.
"With all my heart!" exclaimed Mrs. Rossitur bursting into tears,--"even if I were left alone entirely--"