“Oh, never mind the heliotrope.”
“But it is such a favorite of mine. Do tell me what it means?”
“Je vous aime,” said Mary with a laugh, and a slight blush; “it is all nonsense. Oh, here's mamma at last,” and she jumped up and went to meet her mother, who came out of the drawing-room, candle in hand.
“My dear Mary, I thought you were gone to bed,” said Mrs. Porter, looking from one to the other seriously.
“Oh, I'm not the least tired, and I couldn't go without wishing you and papa good night, and thanking you for all the trouble you have taken.”
“Indeed we ought all to thank you,” said Tom; “everybody said it was the pleasantest party they had ever been at.”
“I am very glad it went off so well,” said Mrs. Porter, gravely; “and now, Mary, you must go to bed.”
“I am afraid I must leave you to-morrow morning,” said Tom.
“Yes; Mrs. Brown said they expect you at home tomorrow.”
“I am to ride round by Uncle Robert's; would you like one of the boys to go with me?”