But she was greatly interested in the Norwegian girls, and presently
began to occupy herself with plans for their benefit.
Edward watched her furtively, quite amused at the unwonted gravity of her
countenance.
"What, may I ask, is the subject of your meditations, little woman?" he
inquired, with a laughing look into her face, as the train came to a
momentary standstill at a country station. One might suppose, from your
exceeding grave and preoccupied air, that you were engaged in settling
the affairs of the nation."
"No, no, my load of care is somewhat lighter than that, Mr. Travilla,"
she returned with mock seriousness. "It is those poor girls I am thinking
of, and what employment can be found for them."
"Well, what is the conclusion arrived at? or is there none as yet?"
"I think--I am nearly sure, indeed--that if they are really expert
needlewomen, we can find plenty for them to do in our own family
connection; five families of us, you know."
"Five?"
"Yes: Ion, Fairview, The Laurels, The Oaks, and Roselands."
"Ah, yes; and it must take an immense amount of sewing to provide all the
changes of raiment desired by the ladies and children," he remarked
laughingly.
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