"Papa says you're as plump as a partridge; and mamma says you're as fresh as a rose; and Uncle Randal wags his head, and tells them he saw it from the first.

I heard it all when they thought I was playing with my doll--and I want to know, you best of nice girls, what you think of your own self ?" "I think, my dear, it's time we went on with our lessons." "Wait a little, Syd; I have something else to say." "What is it ?" "It's about papa.

He goes out walking with us--doesn't he ?" "Yes." "He didn't go out walking with me--before you came here.

I've been thinking about it; and I'm sure papa likes you.

What are you looking in the drawer for ?" "For your lesson books, dear." "Yes--but I haven't quite done yet.