It cost the weak, proud woman an effort to make this acknowledgment. But Madeline’s arms were around both of their necks, and the child was clinging to both with a half-trembling eagerness. This confession made all the rest easy.
“Return to us,” she added, “and be to my children what you once were.”
“Do come back again!” It was the pleading voice of Madeline. “Oh, I wish you had never gone away!”
Florence felt a shudder run through the child’s body, as if some fearful image had been presented to her mind.
“Say you will come back, and take your old place, Miss Harper,” urged Mrs. Dainty.
The arm of Madeline which was around her mother’s neck withdrew itself and joined the arm that circled the neck of Florence.
“Say yes! Do say yes, Miss Harper!” And the child’s clasping arms were drawn very tightly.
“Yes,” said Florence, as she kissed the child.
“Oh! I am so glad! So glad!” cried Madeline, overcome with joy at this concession. “If you had never gone away!”
“We will be friends,” said Mrs. Dainty, taking the hand of Florence Harper and pressing it warmly. “I did not understand you before. But I see clearer to-day.”