Madeline took the hand of Miss Harper, who led her down-stairs and into the sitting-room. Mr. Dainty, old Mr. Fleetwood, Agnes, and little George were there. Miss Harper gave each a warning glance, which was understood.
“Wide awake, pet?” said Uncle John, in a cheerful, affectionate voice. “What a nice long sleep you have had!”
Mr. Dainty and Agnes avoided any remark, or, indeed, any exhibition of more than common interest. George ran up to Madeline, kissed her lovingly, and drew his arm around her waist. But he had been cautioned by his sister, and so made no allusion to recent exciting events.
“Georgie,” whispered Madeline, putting her lips close to her brother’s ear, “Miss Harper is coming to live here again.”
“Is she?” responded the little boy, with a suddenly illuminated face.
“Yes, indeed. A’n’t you, Miss Harper?” And Madeline looked up into the face of her governess.
“If you want me?” was the smiling reply.
“Oh, that’s grand!” said George, striking his hands together and jumping a foot from the floor. “Did you hear that, Uncle John?”
“Hear what?” asked the old gentleman.
“Miss Harper is coming back again!” answered the boy. “Oh, I’m so glad!”