As children we had always been warmly welcomed under our aunt's roof; but during the long years which had passed since our removal to Welland, we had forgotten what Denesfield was like. We told our mother so, when she spoke of its beauty. "You will soon have an opportunity of refreshing your memories," she answered. "Listen to what your aunt writes;" and she read from the letter: "I hope my young nieces will be my guests as often and for as long a time as you can spare them. As Mildred is my namesake and god-daughter, you must let her come as soon as possible after I reach home. Alice, Ellen, and Miriam will forgive me this preference. Tell them, with my love, that I hope Aunt Milly's house will be a second home to them all." There was no feeling of envy because I received the first invitation. We sisters loved each other, and if one had a special pleasure, the rest rejoiced with her. There was no striving amongst us; and, as I look back, I often feel how the sympathy which reigned amongst us increased our happiness. I own that I was nearly wild with delight at the prospect of leaving Welland for a time. I longed to take all my dear ones with me; but in that quiet spot, with its round of duties and pleasures, the days seemed so much alike that I was eager for a change. The time came to an end at last, and I started on my journey. Travelling was not so easy then as now; but I was able to go nearly the whole distance under the care of an old friend. Two miles from Denesfield, I changed my seat in the mail-coach for one in my aunt's carriage, which was waiting for me. But I received my welcome before I reached the house. A tall, stately-looking lady stood on the pavement as the coach drew up, and having seen her likeness, I recognised my aunt. I sprang forward, exclaiming: "You must be Aunt Milly, I am sure!" What a beautiful, hearty smile of welcome lighted her face as she answered, "And you are my niece, Mildred Corsor, my dear sister Ellen's child. I am so glad to see you!" She kissed me tenderly, and then, bidding the footman see to my luggage, she led me to the carriage, and we started for Denesfield. CHAPTER II DENESFIELD AND ITS OWNER AS we drove through the beautiful park and wide grounds, I was full of wonder that my aunt could have left such a lovely spot for so many years. I used to visit all the country gentry round Welland; but how modest all their homes seemed in comparison with Denesfield! And my aunt, with her tall, graceful figure and stately carriage looked fit to be the mistress of such a home. We had not much talk that night. My aunt asked questions about my parents and sisters; but beyond telling her of them, and delivering the loving messages with which I was charged, there was little time for conversation. It was evening when I arrived, so Aunt Milly kindly insisted that I should go to bed early.