“I can't say that I should, Elvira,” he replied; “although it is not hard to believe that such a beautiful baby should, prove to be such a—er—good-looking young woman.”
“I've always felt very grateful to you for bringing me back,” said Honora.
“Tut, tut, child,” said Mrs. Holt; “there was no one else to do it. And be careful how you pay young women compliments, Joshua. They grow vain enough. By the way, my dear, what ever became of your maternal grandfather, old Mr. Allison—wasn't that his name?”
“He died when I was very young,” replied Honora.
“He was too fond of the good things of this life,” said Mrs. Holt.
“My dear Elvira!” her husband protested.
“I can't help it, he was,” retorted that lady. “I am a judge of human nature, and I was relieved, I can tell you, my dear” (to Honora), “when I saw your uncle and aunt on the wharf that morning. I knew that I had confided you to good hands.”
“They have done everything for me, Mrs. Holt,” said Honora.
The good lady patted her approvingly on the shoulder.
“I'm sure of it, my dear,” she said. “And I am glad to see you appreciate it. And now you must renew your acquaintance with the family.”