opt it."

"That was not at all necessary," he returned pleasantly. "But I quite
approve, and trust, you will find it work to your entire satisfaction."

"Talking of helping the blacks, and thinking of the advice so often
given, 'Do the work nearest at hand,' it strikes me it would be well for
us to begin with those in our own house and on the plantation,"
remarked Edward.

"I think they have never been neglected, Edward," said his grandfather;
"a school-house was provided for them years ago, your mother pays a
teacher to instruct them, visits the school frequently, often gives
religious instruction herself to the pupils there, and to their parents
in visiting them in their cabins; sees that they are taken care of in
sickness too, and that they do not suffer for the necessaries of life at
any time."

"Yes, sir, that is all true," returned Edward, "but I was only thinking
of giving them some extra care, instruction and gifts during the
approaching holidays; says a Christmas tree loaded with, not the
substantials of life only, but some of the things that will give
pleasure merely--finery for the women and girls, toys for the children
and so forth."

"Meaning tobacco for the old folks and sweets for all, I suppose?" added
Zoe with sportive look and tone.

"Yes, my dear, that's about it," he said, smiling affectionately upon
her.

"O mamma, let us do it!" cried Rosie with enthusiasm; "let's have a fine
big tree in their school-room, and have them come there and get their
gifts before we have ours here. We should get Vi and the captain to join
us in it as the colored children from Woodburn attend school there too."

"I am well pleased with the idea," replied her mother, "and have little
doubt that the captain and Vi will be also. But let us have your
opinion, my dear father," she added, turning upon him a look of mingled
love and reverence.

"It coincides with yours, daughter," Mr. Dinsmore answered. "And I move
that Ned' and Zoe be appointed a committee to find out the needs of the
proposed recipients of our bounty; others being permitted to assist if
they like."

The motion was carried by acclamation, merry jesting and laughter
followed, and in the midst of it all the door was thrown open and a
visitor announced.

"Mr. Lilburn, ladies and gentlemen."

Grandma Elsie hastily laid aside her crocheting and hurried forward with
both hands extended. "Cousin Ronald! what a joyful surprise! Welcome,
welcome to Ion!