her mother.

"Yes," said Mrs. Croly, "I cannot tell you how glad I was to learn of
this beautiful place, so near to Ion, for sale; for I felt badly over
the thought that we were robbing Mrs. Travilla of the companionship of
so sweet a daughter. Besides I am anxious to remain in this
neighbourhood, that I may continue under the care of Dr. Conly; for he
has helped me more than any other physician I ever tried."

That remark seemed gratifying to all three of her listeners, and Mrs.
Dinsmore said: "We are glad to hear it; for Dr. Conly is dear to us all,
as relative, friend, and physician."

"He has a lovely young wife," was Mrs. Croly's next remark; "and a
darling baby boy of whom they are both very proud and fond."

"Yes," said Mrs. Travilla, "it does one good to see how happy they are
in the possession of it and of each other. Arthur remained single for
years; I think to provide, or assist in providing, for his mother,
sisters, and younger brothers, but he seems to be reaping his reward
now in having a wife who is a great comfort and blessing to him."

"She is that, indeed!" said Mrs. Allison emphatically. "Ah! speak of
angels--here they come!" as Dr. Conly and his young wife were seen
approaching, followed by a nurse carrying the infant.

In another minute they had joined the group on the veranda, where the
doctor speedily ensconced his wife in an easy-chair, placed himself in
another by her side, and taking the baby from the nurse, held it up with
a look of fatherly pride, asking the older ladies, "Isn't this a pretty
fine specimen of babyhood, considering that he is my son?"

"Yes, indeed!" laughed Mrs. Allison, "it is singular that so poor a
specimen of manhood as my nephew, Arthur Conly, should have so fine a
son. But he may have got his good looks from his mother; though I do not
perceive that she has lost any."

"Now, Aunt Adelaide, after that you will do well to take care not to
fall ill and get into the doctor's hands," laughed Marian.

"My dear," said the doctor, "can you suppose I object to having my wife
praised? or my son, even at his father's expense?"

"No, I know you do not," she returned. "I verily believe you would
sacrifice everything for him except his mother."

"Did he let you take part in any of the games?" asked Adelaide.

"Oh, I didn't ask to!" said Marian. "I have grown so lazy that I thought
it more fun to watch the others."

"Captain Raymond and Violet seem to be enjoying tennis