Are you going ?" "I believe I am," replied Lucilla.

"I have had an invitation, and papa has given me permission to accept it; but he thinks Gracie is not strong enough to go on such an excursion without him along to take care of her." "Yes, I suppose that is so," said Rosie.

"I am sorry, for I am going and I should like to have Gracie's company.

Rather than do without it I would even take Brother Levis' too," she added with a laugh and in a little louder tone, turning a playful look upon him as she spoke.
His quick ear had caught the words.
"Can that be so, Sister Rosie," he said with assumed gravity.

"Well, unfortunately, I cannot go, as I have had no invitation.