Page:The Diothas, or, A far look ahead (IA diothasorfarlook01macn).pdf/204

 It was a pleasant sensation to be the centre of a bevy of lovely cousins, each anxious to say something pleasant and kind. It was a state of things to which I had no objection. But Reva too soon put an end to it by saying,—

"I promised Ialma to bring you back soon. She, too, has some introductions to make."

Though not without some natural curiosity in regard to my remaining cousins, it was with no slight regret that I turned to follow my fair guide. We had not proceeded far along the corridor, when we could hear the renewal of the animated conversation we had interrupted by our entrance.

"We were all very curious to see you," observed Reva, as we went on. You are the first cousin we have seen from so far. We are busy, just now, making arrangements for celebrating the hundredth birthday of our great-grandmother, yours too, Semna Diotha."

"May not I, too, take part in the celebration?" said I, moved less, I am afraid, by consideration for my revered ancestress, than by admiration for her lovely descendants.

"Of course," replied Reva. There is to be a gathering of her descendants from all quarters. Your mother and sister have promised to be here in time for Ialma's wedding, which is a few days earlier."

This unexpected announcement afforded me so much food for reflection, that I walked along in silence till we were met by Ialma. Reva then excused herself, on the ground that her presence was expected in the place where we had left our cousins.

I need say little of my presentation to my remaining