‘So he would, Robert, were it not for so long a time. But a six months’ visit is too much to expect from any stranger. If Emma were only here, Uncle Henry would have sent Margaret to her.’ ‘It is certainly very inconvenient,’ I remarked carelessly. ‘I suppose, Robert dear,’ said Janie, in a dubious and hesitating manner,—‘I suppose _we_ could not offer to take in Margaret till Uncle Henry returns from China?’ I started. The idea had not presented itself to me before, and it was certainly not a pleasant one. I hope I am not of an inhospitable turn of mind; but the prospect of having a perfect stranger located beneath our roof for such a length of time was anything but agreeable to me. I remembered Janie’s want of companionship, and the many times I had had to resign the society of my brother-officers on her account, and felt resigned; but the next moment I thought of all my quiet evenings with my loving little wife being broken in upon; of our cosy walks, and talks, and drives being done away with, and for six long months—and I daresay I did look blank. Indeed, I must have done so; for Janie, who is not, generally speaking, what is termed quick of observation, saw the change in my countenance and commented upon it. ‘You don’t like the notion, Robert dear?’ she said, in a tone of disappointment. ‘Well, Janie, I can’t say I do; but if it must be, it must be. What does your uncle say on the subject?’ ‘He says it would be a great convenience, of course, and that he does not know to whom else to apply, or he would not trouble us. And Margaret and I were at school together, Robert: we were brought up quite like sisters; so it would seem strange if she were to go to anyone else. And it is only for six months; and Uncle Henry says that he does not expect us to be put to any expense about it, for that he—’ ‘Oh, blow the expense!’ I irreverently interrupted. ‘When does Colonel Anstruther leave Madras, Janie?’ ‘Next week; and Margaret is to arrive the week after.’ ‘And what arrangements can he make for her joining us at Mushin-Bunda?’ ‘Mrs Grant, a friend of his, has offered to receive Margaret on her arrival, and to keep her until a steamer starts for here, which will probably not be long first.’ ‘Very well. Write to your uncle, and say that we shall be proud to give Miss Anstruther house-room until such time as he may be able to reclaim her.’ ‘And you’re not vexed about it, Robert dear?’ said Janie timidly. I stooped and kissed her. ‘Not a bit, darling,’ I answered gaily. ‘Half-a-dozen cousins could make no difference to our love; and as long as that remains unaltered, I care for nothing else.’ Upon which my little wife brightened up again, and prepared to write an answer to her uncle’s letter; and I lit another cigar, and resumed my old position in the verandah.