The happy family of children whom she had secretly watched with longing heart, were now to be her brothers and sisters; the lovely garden into which she had gazed with hopeless eyes was henceforth to be her home; she was to have parents who would surround her always with their protecting love.

She was to learn what the others learned; yes, to have regular studies with them, as well as music-lessons.

Dora's heart was flooded with the thoughts that welled up within her.

One thing she was sure of; that her father was looking down at her, and rejoicing with her.

She stood at the window and gazed up at the sparkling stars, and recalled the sad hours of depression that she had known, when these stars did not seem to bring her comfort, and when she had almost lost faith in that kind heavenly Father, who nevertheless had now brought all this happiness to her.
She fell on her knees and thanked God for his goodness, and prayed that she might never again doubt Him, but that even in times of sorrow, she might be able to say, with heart-felt trust in the words of her father's verse: "God holds us in his hand, God knows the best to send." Uncle Titus and Aunt Ninette engaged their rooms with Mrs.Kurd for the following summer; Uncle Titus even went farther still, and begged Mrs.
Kurd, no matter what happened, never to promise them to any one else; for he left her house now with keen regret, and hoped to return to it every summer as long as he lived.
When Monday morning came, the whole family were on hand before the cottage, to wish the departing guests good-speed.