family.

Zoe excused herself from any share in that work on the plea that she was
too young to be companionable to the ladies, spent some hours in diligent
study, then walked out with the children.

"I have two sets of lessons ready for you," was her greeting to Edward,
when he came in late in the afternoon.

"Have you, dear?" he returned, taking the easy-chair she drew forward for
him. "Then let me hear them. You must have been an industrious little
woman to-day."

"Tolerably; but you know one set was ready for you yesterday."

"Ah, yes; you were industrious then, also. And I dare say it is rather
stupid work studying alone."

"Not when one has such a nice teacher," she answered sportively. "Praise
from your lips is sweeter than it ever was from any other but papa's," she
added, tears trembling in her eyes.

He was glad to be able, on the conclusion of the recitation, to give it
without stint.

She flushed with pleasure, and helping herself to a seat upon his knee,
thanked him with a hug and kiss.

"Easter holidays begin next week," he remarked, putting an arm about her
and returning her caress; "do you wish to give up your studies during that
time?"

"No," she said; "I've wasted too much time during the past few weeks, and
I'd rather take my holidays in the very warm weather."

"That is what mamma's and grandpa's pupils are to do," he said. "They are
invited to both the Oaks and the Laurels in May and June, to spend some
weeks at each place. And you are included in both invitations."

"I shall not go unless you do," she said with decision. "Parted from my
husband for weeks? No, indeed! I can hardly stand it for a single day,"
she added, laying her cheek to his.

"Nor I, little wife," he said, passing his hand softly over her hair. "Do
you feel equal to a ride this afternoon?"

"Why, yes; of course! shall I get ready at once?"

"Yes, do, dearie. There is to be a party of us--grandpa, mamma, and Miss
Fleming, Miss Deane, you and I."

Zoe's brow clouded. "Riding three abreast, I suppose. But why did you ask
Miss Deane? She'll spoil all my enjoyment."

"Don't let her; I must show some attention to her as a guest in the house,
and really felt obliged to invite her. We are to call at Fairview, and see
how Lester and Elsie get on with their housekeeping. Now, do promise me
that you will be a good, sensible little woman, and not indulge in
jealousy."

"To please you I'll do the very best I can. I told