Then, as the sound of wheels on the drive without came to their ears, "Ah! our guests are beginning to arrive, and we must go out and bid them welcome." Several carriage loads were already there, and others quickly followed till, in a very short time, all the expected relatives were present.
Then mirth and jollity ruled the hour, all--old and young--seeming in gayest spirits and ready to join in any amusement that might be proposed.

Mr.and Mrs.Croly were among the guests.

She had gained so materially in health and strength that she was able--resting in an easy-chair upon the veranda--to watch the sports of the younger and healthier ones with interest and enjoyment; and to converse with one and another as they came in turn to chat with her for a time.

At length, finding herself alone with Grandma Elsie for a while, she turned to her, saying in a sprightly way: "I am getting so much better under the skilful treatment of Dr.Conly that I ventured on quite a drive this morning, and we went to look at a little place, some ten or more acres in extent, about which your son Doctor Harold was telling us yesterday.

It is on the river bank, the lawn sloping down to the water, and it is hardly farther from Ion than this place.