t
arrived from Australia. Herbert had got into disgrace during the last
visit he paid his grandmamma; but still he felt vexed at being left out of
the invitation, as he was curious to see these new cousins. His regret
was softened, however, when he thought there would now be a good
opportunity for making the arbour, so as to repay Carry for the injury
done to her garden. This thought made him very glad. It was decided that
Caroline should go that same day, and as she had a great deal to do in
helping nurse to pack her little trunk, and give directions about her
numerous pets, she did not once go near her garden.

Herbert could not help saying before she left, "I am so sorry I am not a
kinder brother to you, Carry; I do mean, however, to be better to you in
the future."

"Oh, don't say that, Herbert," replied Carry; "I know it's just in fun,
and I am so stupid to look vexed. I love you dearly, for you are my own
kind good brother," and she clasped her arms round him in a fond embrace.

"That's all very well," said Herbert, returning the affectionate pressure;
"but I am sure I am not like Cousin Charlie. He is a kind brother really,
and always seems to be able to do and say the right thing at the proper
time; and as for being cross with Lizzie, he would sooner think of
flying."

"Well, we shall say nothing more about it, dear," said Caroline kindly.
"All I have to say is, I'd rather have you for my brother, though Charlie
is as good a boy as ever lived, I do think. Let us forget everything
disagreeable to-day, as I am to leave home so soon. Oh dear! I was
forgetting; I promised Daisy, my lamb, I would have a romp with her before
dinner, and the bell will ring very soon!"

They at once ran off, and getting the lamb from its snug house, proceeded
to the wood, their favourite resort.

"I wonder whether she will know you when you return," said Herbert, as he
stood watching his sister tying a bright piece of ribbon round her lamb's
neck.

"O Herbert, please don't say that!--what a dreadful idea!" replied
Caroline. "I really don't think she will ever be so ungrateful!--indeed, I
am sure she will know me if I stayed away ever so long. Now, Daisy, am I
not right?" she continued, kneeling down before her pet; "you will love me
always, even after you are a great fat sheep, and I have grown up into
quite a big girl."

Daisy seemed to be quite impressed with the solemnity of the occasion,
and put out her black tongue to lic