50 The Story of the Hamiltons.

country beyond; the other commanding only
a view of the poultry yard and back door,
but nevertheless of great interest to Herbert,
as the butcher's and baker's carts were to him
sources of continual amusement. There was
a tall guard surrounding the grate, and be-
sides the china cupboard and clothes-press,
and the table and chairs, there was a fine large
wicker box for toys, and a small book-shelf
for the girls' story-books. Altogether, that
nursery was a cheerful, cosy place; it looked
especially so now, with nurse sitting quietly at
work, and Edith standing by Herbert, who
was perched on the table while she showed
him some gaily-painted picture-books. Mrs.
Hamilton smiled as she came into the room,
and Herbert was soon in her arms. After
giving some directions to nurse, she turned
round, saying-
 "Edith dear, it is nearly time to dress for
your ride. Grace has kindly given up her
turn to you, so run and get ready."
 "Has she ? How very, very kind! But
mamma, I know she was wanting to go to
Widdrington extremely, and really I don't
care so much about it to-day. I should not
like to disappoint her; Gilbert will take me
another time, I dare say."