On the following Monday he and the other children were sent to the Oaks to
make the promised visit.
Gracie alone needed some persuasion to induce her to go of her own free
will, and that only because mamma was not going. Gracie was not at all
sure that she could live two whole weeks without her dear mamma.
Just before they started, Mr. Dinsmore made Max very happy by the
restoration of his money and watch. He added an admonition against
gambling, and Max replied with an earnest promise never to touch a card
again.
CHAPTER XXIV.
A CHAPTER OF SURPRISES.
Edward and Zoe decided upon a little pleasure trip in addition to the
business one, and, in consequence, were absent from home for over a
fortnight. On their return, Elsie met them on the threshold with the
warmest and most loving of welcomes.
"How well and happy you both look, my dear children!" she said, glancing
from one to the other, her face full of proud, fond, motherly affection.
"As we are, mother dear," Edward responded. "Glad to see you so, also. How
is Vi?"
"Doing nicely."
"Vi! Is she sick?" asked Zoe, her tone expressing both surprise and
concern.
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