Her efforts were appreciated, and met fully half-way, by her loving
spouse.
The four, taking possession of the rustic seat on the top of a little
knoll, where the huge branches of a giant oak protected them from the sun,
took a lengthened survey of the house and grounds, and held a consultation
in regard to ways and means.
Returning to the Oaks, the gentlemen went to the library, where old Mr.
Dinsmore was sitting alone, and reported to him the result of the morning
conference. Roselands was to be rebuilt as fast as men and materials could
be procured, Elsie furnishing the means--a very large sum of money, of
which he was to have the use, free of interest, for a long term of years,
or during his natural life.
Mr. Horace Dinsmore knew his father would never take it as a gift, and
indeed, it cost him a hard struggle to bring his pride down to the
acceptance of it as offered. But he consented at last, and as the other
two retired, begged that Elsie would come to him for a moment.
She came in so quietly that he was not aware of her presence. He sat in
the corner of a sofa, his white head bowed upon his knees, and his aged
frame shaking with sobs.
Kneeling at his side, she put her arms about him, whispering, "Grandpa,
my poor, dear grandpa, be comforted; for we all love and honor you.
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