Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/54

48 advancing towards her, "will you distribute your treasures yourself?"

"You see," said she with a smile which Eda had not thought her face could assume, "I am beginning my acquaintance with your house betimes, you can imagine the attraction which this room possesses in my eyes." Mr. Dalton looked gratified, and proceeded to unfasten the strings of the different packages.

"Where does this draught come from?" exclaimed he suddenly; "why, Eda," looking towards the open window, "this is not like your usual care." Eda remained silent for a minute or two, but, finding her mistress did not speak, said "Mrs. Dalton opened it, I believe she found the room too warm." As if she had just recollected it, the lady looked round:

"Ah, I forgot, but you cannot think how close it was when I came in. Very unwholesome to keep a room so hot. I see you will all require a deal of reform, shall I begin with you," addressing Mr. Dalton; "but that would be saying little