"Hours fly on eagle's wings, when people are pleased and busy, as we have been this afternoon," observed Uncle Morris in reply; "but hark! our door-bell rings! Somebody is coming in. Boys, put the chairs to rights!"
Before the disordered room could be made fit for a reception, the servant opened the door, and said:
"Mr. Carlton, will you please step to the door?"
Going to the door, Mr. Carlton found a man standing on the door-step with a letter in his hand. A carriage stood in front of the piazza. Bowing to Mr. Carlton, the man handed him the letter, and said:
"I have brought Miss Kate Carlton from New York, to stay with you, Sir. She is in the carriage. This letter will explain the reasons of her coming."
Though greatly surprised at the sudden appearance of his niece, Mr. Carlton did not stop, either to read the letter or ask questions, but went at once to the carriage, and offering his hand to his niece, said:
"I am happy to see you, my dear, at Glen Morris. Come into the house. John will see to your baggage."
Kate put her fingers into her uncle's hand, and with a mincing step, walked into the hall. Mr. Carlton asked the man who accompanied her, if he would remain all night.
"No, Sir. I thank you. I must return by the last train, which will be here, as soon as I can get to the station. Good night, Sir!"
When Kate was conducted to the parlor, she was of course, greeted with looks and expressions of great surprise. Jessie sprang to her cousin, embracing her, and exclaiming:
Guy took her hand kindly, and said, "I am glad to see you, Kate."
Hugh also gave her his hand, but his words were not gracious. He said:
"What, _you_ come here again, Kate Carlton!"
Uncle Morris kissed her, and spoke very kindly to her. Somehow, his instincts told him that her sudden coming to Glen Morris, was caused by some unexpected evil.
Kate returned these greetings very stiffly. She had a cold nature, which did not readily respond to the emotions of others. She was tired, she said, and would like to be shown to her room as soon as possible. Jessie accordingly conducted her to Mrs. Carlton's room, who was as much surprised to see her, as the others had been.
As soon as she left the parlor, Mr. Carlton, who had been reading the letter which came with her, placed his hand upon his forehead, looked very gravely at Mr. Morris, and said:
