"You are the most beautiful lady in the world," she whispered. "And I wish you were my mother or my aunt."
They were interrupted by a maid who came to say that the carriage had been sent for Miss Elizabeth Herrick, and that she must hurry. Her aunts wanted her at once.
"I wonder why," said Elizabeth, discontentedly, as she glanced at the clock. "Aunt Caroline told me I could stay until nine o'clock, and it is only eight now. And I was just beginning to enjoy the party."
"Never mind, dear," said Mrs. Brown; "it is very nice that you happened to come up here and find me, and I shall look forward to seeing you again soon. Perhaps after a time you may be allowed to take drawing-lessons. I am so glad you love it, Elizabeth"—kissing her again—"and I am more glad still that you like me even a tiny bit!"
"Like you!" cried Elizabeth. "I love you. I adore you!"
And then she ran to put on her coat and hat, for her aunt's message had been imperative, and she dared not linger.
She was driven quickly home, and when the door was opened for her the man told her that her aunts were in the library and wished to see her at once. Wondering, she ran up stairs, and, drawing aside the portière, she entered the room. It was more brightly lighted than usual, and her eyes fell upon a group of people who were sitting at the farther end of it, beyond the big library table.
Her two aunts were there, and a gentleman whose back was turned to her. A strange feeling came over Elizabeth. Who was this gentleman? Why had they sent for her? Was the longing of years to be fulfilled at last?
They did not see her at first, not until she had slowly advanced and was very near them. Then Miss Herrick discovered her.
"Oh," she exclaimed, "you are here! Edward, this is Elizabeth."