"I like these books very much, and I don't at all care to read that other one since you have told me you do not approve of it." "That is my own darling child," said he, returning her caress, "your ready obedience deserved a reward.

Now put on your hat, and we will take our walk." Mr.Travilla joined them in the avenue, and his kind heart rejoiced to see how the clouds of care and sorrow had all passed away from his little friend's face, leaving it bright and beaming, as usual.

Her father had one hand, and Mr.Travilla soon possessed himself of the other.
"I don't altogether like these company-days, when you have to be banished from the table, little Elsie," he remarked.

"I cannot half enjoy my breakfast without your bright face to look at." "I don't like them either, Mr.Travilla, because I see so little of papa.
I haven't had a ride with him since the company came." "You shall have one this afternoon, if nothing happens," said her father quickly.

"What do you say, Travilla, to a ride on horseback with the four young ladies you took charge of yesterday, and myself ?" "Bravo! I shall be delighted to be of the party, if the ladies don't object; eh! Elsie, what do you think ?" with a questioning look down into her glad face, "will they want me ?" "You needn't be a bit afraid, Mr.Travilla," laughed the little girl; "I like you next to papa, and I believe Lucy and the rest like you better." "Oh! take care, Elsie; are you not afraid of hurting his feelings ?" "No danger, as long as _she_ puts me first," Mr.Dinsmore said, bestowing a smile and loving glance on her.
Caroline Howard was in Elsie's room, waiting to show her bracelet, which had just been handed to her by her maid; Pomp having brought it from the city late the night before.
"Oh! Elsie, I am so glad you have come at last.