“I guess I mean it. But don't—Hold on! Where's Minnie?”
Eunice turned, and ran back upstairs. “Minnie! Min!” she called on her way. “Dan's engagement's off.”
“I don't believe it!” answered Minnie's voice joyously, from within some room. It was followed by her presence, with successive inquiries. “How do you know? Did you get a letter? When did it happen? Oh, isn't it too good?”
Minnie was also dressed for the verandah promenade, which they always took when the snow was too deep. She caught sight of her brother as she came down. “Why, Dan's here! Dan, I've been thinking about you all day.” She kissed him, which Eunice was now reminded to do too.
“Yes, it's true, Minnie,” said Dan gravely. “I came up to tell you. It don't seem to distress you much.”
“Dan!” said his sister reproachfully. “You know I didn't mean to say anything I only felt so glad to have you back again.”
“I understand, Minnie—I don't blame you. It's all right. How's mother? Father up from the works yet? I'm going to my room.”
“Indeed you're not!” cried Eunice, with elder sisterly authority. “You shall tell us about it first.”
“Oh no! Let him go, Eunice!” pleaded Minnie, “Poor Dan! And I don't think we ought to go to walk when—”
Dan's eyes dimmed, and his voice weakened a little at her sympathy. “Yes, go. I'm tired—that's all. There isn't anything to tell you, hardly. Miss Pasmer—”