They could not
understand why such a woman should wish to take up her abode at the
Anchorage, of all places. To them, the Britts were very inferior
people. They knew the captain by sight and reputation, but his wife
they had never met.
After a week's hesitation and consideration, several women called upon
Miss Royanna one fine afternoon. But she was not in. She spent most
of her time with the scouts, so Mrs. Britt informed them. She lived
out of doors during the day, and in the evening was generally at the
rectory.
The Royals were charmed with the singer. She was so quiet and gentle,
and made herself perfectly at home. How her presence brightened up the
house. At times she played on the little piano, and sang several of
her sweetest songs.
One evening when she was about to return to the Anchorage, a furious
thunder-storm burst upon the land, accompanied by a torrent of rain.
It continued so long that the Royals were able to induce their visitor
to remain all night.
"I am afraid that I shall give you too much trouble," Miss Royanna told
them.
"Oh, no," Mrs. Royal hastened to assure her. "It will be a great
pleasure to have you. There is one room which is always ready, and,"
here her voice became low, "no one has slept in it for over thirteen
years.
Pages:
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301