“Thank you; I shall enjoy doing so very much indeed,” returned Evelyn, blushing with pleasure.

Edward seconded the invitation.

“And don’t forget that the doors are wide open to you at the Laurels,” said Mr. Lacy.

“At the Oaks also,” said Mr. Dinsmore.  And Calhoun Conly added, “And at Roselands; we shall expect frequent visits, and do our best for your entertainment; though unfortunately we have no little folks to be your companions.”

Evelyn acknowledged each invitation gracefully and in suitable words.  Then, the meal having come to a conclusion, all rose from the table and returned to the drawing-room; but presently, as it was growing late and the travelers were supposed to be wearied with their journey, one family after another bade good-by and departed.

“Well, Eva, what do you think of Mrs. Zoe?” asked Mr. Leland when they had turned out of the avenue into the road leading to Fairview.  “I understood you were quite anxious to make her acquaintance.”

“I think I shall like her very much, uncle,” Eva answered; “she seems so bright, pleasant, and cordial.  And she loves her husband so dearly.”

Mr. Leland laughed at the concluding words.  “And you think that an additional reason for liking her?”

“Yes, indeed!  I think husbands and wives should be very unselfishly affectionate toward each other; as I have observed that you and Aunt Elsie always are.”

Both laughed in a pleased way, her uncle saying, “So you have been watching us?”

“I never set myself at it,” she said, “but I couldn’t help seeing what was so very evident.”

“And no harm if you did.  To change the subject—­I am greatly interested in those Norwegians.  I hope, my dear, you can give them some employment.”

“Yes, and shall do so gladly, if they are competent; for I, too, feel a deep interest in them.”

“So do I,” said Evelyn; “I wanted to see them.”

“We will call at Ion to-morrow, and I think you will then get a sight of them, and I learn something of their ability in the sewing line,” said her aunt.

Edward and Zoe had arrived at home a little in advance of their two protegees, and given orders in regard to their reception; and when the girls reached Ion they were received by Aunt Dicey, the housekeeper, at a side entrance, kindly welcomed and conducted to the apartments assigned them, where they found a tempting meal spread for their refreshment and every comfort provided.

“Dis am de sewin’-room—­an’ fo’ de present yo’ dinin’-room also,” she announced as she ushered them in; “an’ dat am de bedroom whar Mr. Ed’ard an’ Miss Zoe tole me you uns is to sleep.  Dar’s watah dar an’ soap an’ towels, s’posin’ you likes fo’ to wash off de dust ob trabel befo’ you sits down to de table.  ’Bout de time you gits done dat de hot cakes and toast and tea’ll be fotched up from de kitchen.”

With that she turned and left the room.