CHAPTER VII.
"Therein he them fall fair did entertain, Not with such forged shows as fitter been For courting fools, that courtesies would faine, But with entire affection plain." -- _Spenser's "Fairy Queen."_ One bright morning in November the Ion family were gathered about the breakfast-table.

Rosie and Walter were there for the first time since their severe illness, a trifle pale and thin still, but nearly in usual health, and very glad to be permitted to take their old places at the table.
Mrs.Dinsmore had returned from her sojourn at the Laurels, the home of her daughter Rose; the grandchildren there, whom she had been nursing, having also recovered their health; and so the places of the eldest son and daughter of the house were the only vacant ones.
Both Elsie and Edward were sorely missed, especially by the mother and Violet.
"It seems time we had letters again from our absentees, papa," Mrs.
Travilla remarked as she poured the coffee.

"We have had none since the telegram giving the hour for the wedding." "No, but perhaps we may hear this morning--the mail has not come yet." "Yes, grandpa; here comes Solon with it," said Harold, glancing from the window.
In a few moments the man came in bringing the mail-bag, which he handed to Mr.Dinsmore.
All looked on with interest, the younger ones in eager expectation, while their grandfather opened it and examined the contents.
"Yes, daughter, there is a letter from each of them, both directed to you," he said, glancing over the addresses on several letters which he now held in his hand.

"Here, Tom," to the servant in waiting, "take these to your mistress.

Don't read them to the neglecting of your breakfast," he added with a smile, again addressing Mrs.Travilla.
"No, sir; they will keep," she answered, returning the smile; "and you shall all share the pleasure of their perusal with me after prayers.
Doubtless they give the particulars we all want so much to learn." They all gathered round her at the appointed time.