"Many thanks to you both," he answered gayly. "I was conceited enough to
feel sure of a welcome, and did not wait, as a more modest fellow might,
to be invited. But what a lovely place! a paradise upon earth! And, Elsie,
you, in those dainty white robes, look the fit presiding genius."
Elsie laughed and shook her head. "Don't turn flatterer, Harold; though I
do not object to praise of Viamede."
"I have not heard from Rose in a long time," he said, addressing Mr.
Dinsmore. "She and the little folks are well, I hope?"
"I had a letter this morning, and they were all in good health when it was
written."
The servants had come trooping down from the house, and seizing Harold's
baggage had it all ready in the guest-chamber to which Aunt Phillis
ordered it. Aunt Chloe now drew near to pay her respects to "Massa
Harold," and tell him that his room was ready.
"Will you go to it at once? or sit down here and have a little chat with
papa and me first?" asked Elsie.
"Thank you; I think I shall defer the pleasure of the chat till I have
first made myself presentable for the evening."
"Then let me conduct you to your room," said Mr. Dinsmore, leading the way
to the house.
Elsie had come in the course of years to look upon the older brothers of
her stepmother as in some sort her uncles, but for Harold, who was so much
nearer her own age, she entertained a sincere sisterly regard.
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