“What is the change you have observed, Uncle John?” she said, her repellant manner subsiding.
“Do you remember to have heard her merry laugh ringing through the house as of old?”
Mrs. Dainty thought for a moment or two, and then replied,—
“I do not.”
“Do you know where she is now?”
“No.”
“Come with me.”
The old gentleman arose, and moved toward the library-door. His niece followed him, with a look of questioning interest on her countenance.
“Where is she?” The mother spoke in a whisper.
“Step softly,” said Mr. Fleetwood.