Then, "Elsie!" she exclaimed, "I can't believe it; you are only jesting." Elsie shook her head with a low, musical, happy laugh.
"He's splendid, I don't deny that; but then--only think--your father's most intimate friend from boyhood up; and almost as old." "Some people seem like wine--to improve with age.

But Mr.Travilla is not old to me now.

He has been standing still, I believe, while I have grown up to him." "And you really are in love with him ?" "He has all my heart, all the love I could give to any one, and I respect, honor, and trust him as I do no one else but my father." "And that reminds me; I was so afraid your father would not let you come to see me.

But--you are your own mistress now, of course." "Papa tells me so sometimes," laughed Elsie, "and yet I know he would be greatly surprised should I take the liberty of doing anything he would not approve.

I asked his permission to come, and he not only gave consent but brought me himself." "That was good in him; but I hope he won't hurry you away.