Gracie was given a share in all the pleasures for which she was considered
strong enough, and when not able to go with the others on their
expeditions, was well entertained at home with toys and books filled with
pictures and stories suited to her age.
Both Elsie and Violet watched over the little girl with true motherly love
and care; she warmly returning the affection of both, but clinging
especially to Violet, her "pretty new mamma."
Gracie was a docile little creature, and seemed very happy in her new
life. She was deeply interested in the riding lessons of her brother and
sister, and when, near the end of the week, Dr. Arthur, to whom she was
becoming much attached, set her on the back of a Shetland pony and led it
about the grounds for a few minutes, promising her longer rides as her
strength increased, she was almost speechless with happiness.
With the second week lessons began for the children. Each task had its
appointed hour, and they were required to be as systematic, punctual and
well prepared for recitations as pupils in an ordinary school, but at the
same time great care was taken that neither mind nor body should be
overtaxed, and they enjoyed many liberties and indulgences which could not
have been granted elsewhere than at home.
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