om the position of guardian.

There was work enough for all three of the guests in the Milford cottage
after breakfast had been served.

The little woman was preparing for her visit to the city as if she
expected to be absent from home several days, instead of only a few
hours, and the boys were called upon to assist in the household duties,
although it is quite probable they were more of a hindrance than a help.

Dan was doing his best at washing the kitchen floor, Joe was trimming
the lamps, and Plums piling up wood in the shed, when the Raymond
carriage rumbled up the lane, causing the utmost confusion and dismay
among aunt Dorcas's assistants.

Because of having been kept thus steadily employed, the time had passed
wonderfully quick, and, until each in turn had looked at the clock, it
was impossible to realise that the coachman had not arrived long in
advance of the hour set.

Even the little woman herself was unprepared for so early a coming of
the carriage, and during the ensuing ten minutes the utmost confusion
reigned.

Then aunt Dorcas and her family were ready for the ride, and Plums said,
with an air of content as he leaned against the wonderful cushions of
the front seat:

"We're a set of sporty dudes now, an' I only hope that feller won't
drive very fast, 'cause we shouldn't have any too long to stay in this
rig, even if he walked the horses every step of the way. Say, this is
great, ain't it?"

Dan made no remark during the ride; but it was evident he enjoyed
himself quite as well as did any other member of the party, and when the
carriage was on the New York side of the river, Master Fernald looked
with undisguised envy at his companions, as he said to aunt Dorcas:

"I s'pose I've got to get out now, eh?"

"Yes, Daniel, for we are going directly to Mr. Raymond's home, and could
not take you there. Come to see me some time, and remember what you have
promised about being a good boy."

"I'll keep as straight as I can," Master Fernald replied, and then he
glanced at the boys, as if doubtful whether he ought to bid them
good-bye.

Perhaps Joe would have said no word in parting but for the gentle
pressure of aunt Dorcas's hand on his. He understood from it what the
little woman would have him do, and leaning forward, said, in a kindly
tone:

"We'll see you later, Dan. Plums an' I won't be swellin' much longer,
but will be at work by this time to-morrow."

Then Master Plummer did his part by