think husbands and wives should be very unselfishly
affectionate toward each other; as I have observed that you and Aunt
Elsie always are."

Both laughed in a pleased way, her uncle saying, "So you have been
watching us?"

"I never set myself at it," she said, "but I couldn't help seeing what
was so very evident."

"And no harm if you did. To change the subject--I am greatly interested
in those Norwegians. I hope, my dear, you can give them some employment."

"Yes, and shall do so gladly, if they are competent; for I, too, feel a
deep interest in them."

"So do I," said Evelyn; "I wanted to see them."

"We will call at Ion to-morrow, and I think you will then get a sight of
them, and I learn something of their ability in the sewing line," said
her aunt.

Edward and Zoe had arrived at home a little in advance of their two
protegees, and given orders in regard to their reception; and when the
girls reached Ion they were received by Aunt Dicey, the housekeeper, at a
side entrance, kindly welcomed and conducted to the apartments assigned
them, where they found a tempting meal spread for their refreshment and
every comfort provided.

"Dis am de sewin'-room--an' fo' de present yo' dinin'-room also," she
announced as she ushered them in; "an' dat am de bedroom whar Mr. Ed'ard
an' Miss Zoe tole me you uns is to sleep. Dar's watah dar an' soap an'
towels, s'posin' you likes fo' to wash off de dust ob trabel befo' you
sits down to de table. 'Bout de time you gits done dat de hot cakes and
toast and tea'll be fotched up from de kitchen."

With that she turned and left the room.

The sisters stood for a moment gazing in a bewildered way each into the
other's face. Not one word had they understood; but the gestures had been
more intelligible. Aunt Dicey had pointed toward the open door of the
adjoining room, and they comprehended that it was intended for their
occupancy.

"What a dark-skinned woman, sister," said Alma at last. "What did she
say? What language does she speak?"

Christine shook her head. "Could it be English? I do not know; it did not
sound like the English the gentleman and lady speak when talking to each
other. But she brought us here, and from the motions she made while
talking I think she said these two rooms were for us to use."

"These rooms for us? these beautiful rooms?" exclaimed Alma in
astonishment and delight, glancing about upon the neat, tasteful, even
elegant appointments of the one in