ed Wynnette.

"So, you see, I unchained him. But, do you know, he wouldn't go without
us? He kept running on a little way and then running back and begging and
praying of us to come so hard that at last Wynnette and I went in and put
our bonnets and coats and came after you," said Elva.

"Joshua knew you were going to Greenbushes, and he wanted to go with you.
So did we when he told us where you were gone. You don't deserve such
devotion; but you have got it anyway," concluded Wynnette.

It seemed rather hard that the children should interrupt the _tete-a-tete_
of lovers who had come out of the house to saunter through the woods on
purpose to be alone, and who were so soon to be separated for so long a
time; but Leonidas and Odalite took the matter in perfectly good humor,
and the four walked on amiably together.

They reached Greenbushes in good time, and had a treat of sweet cider,
gingerbread and Indian walnuts from Aunt Molly.

And after a good rest they set out to return to Mondreer, where they
arrived in time for dinner.

In the meanwhile Mrs. Force was subjected to another interview. Leonidas
and Odalite had scarcely left the house, and Mrs. Force had scarcely
settled down to her embroidery, when there came a gentle tap at the door.

"Come in," said Mrs. Force.

Miss Meeke entered, her pretty, pale face slightly flushed, her usually
quiet demeanor somewhat disturbed.

"Can I speak to you alone for a few moments, ma'am?" she inquired, rather
nervously.

"Certainly, my dear. Take that easy chair," said the lady, in some
surprise, as she motioned her visitor to be seated.

Miss Meeke sat down, but continued perfectly silent and extremely ill at
ease.

Mrs. Force observed her for some minutes, and seeing no prospect of her
speaking, inquired gently:

"What can I do for you, my dear?"

"I--I----" began the governess, taking up the corner of her black, silk
apron and beginning to scrutinize it very attentively, while her
nervousness increased every instant--"I--do not know--that you can do
anything for me, ma'am; but--but--but----"

"Well, my dear?" inquired the lady, kindly, seeing that the governess had
paused in her embarrassment.

"I think I ought--that it is my duty to give--to say--to tell----" began
the poor girl, falteringly, and then coming to another dead halt.

"Can I help you out in any way? Are you in any difficulty? Have you any
complaint to make? Speak, my dear. Do not be afraid," sa