Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/39

Rh were distributed with a more than usual number of "poor dears," and divers mysterious and significant shakes of the head. The children being busily employed in eating, and both herself and visitor drawn a little apart, and armed with cups of most fragrant tea, the housekeeper addressed the nurse, after a deep drawn sigh, and a preliminary shake of the head.

"I suppose you have heard the news?" Though for her to have heard it approached to an impossibility—and her having heard it would have been a sore disappointment to the communicator.

"News," replied Eda, "what is it?"

"The worst news that this house has heard for many a day."

The affectionate Indian turned a startled glance on the two children; but no, there they were, looking equally well and happy; so, satisfied, she contented herself with an enquiring glance at her companion.

"Ah! you may well look at those poor dear