Ellen laughed at the tumble-down condition of the house, as thus pointed out to her, and set about reforming it.
It was Thursday afternoon that Alice and Ellen were left alone in the library, several of the family having been called out to receive some visitors; Alice had excused herself, and Ellen, as soon as they were gone, nestled up to her side.
"How pleasant it is to be alone together, dear Alice! I don't have you even at night now."
"It is very pleasant, dear Ellie! Home will not look disagreeable again, will it, even after all our gaiety here?"
"No indeed! at least, your home won't I don't know what mine will. O me! I had almost forgotten Aunt Fortune!"
"Never mind, dear Ellie! You and I have each something to bear we must be brave, and bear it manfully. There is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother, you know. We shan't be unhappy if we do our duty and love Him."
"How soon is Mr. John going away?"
"Not for all next week. And so long as he stays, I do not mean that you shall leave me."
Ellen cried for joy.
"I can manage it with Miss Fortune, I know," said Alice. "These fine drawing lessons must not be interrupted. John is very much pleased with your performances."