"You don't think it ominous," said Ethel with a slight tremulous
voice.

"More soothing than anything else. It is what we all feel, is it
not? that this little daisy bud is the link between us and heaven?"

"But about him. He was victor at first--vanquished the next time."

"I think--if it is to have an interpretation, though I am not sure we
ought to take it so seriously, it would only mean that in younger
days people care for victory and distinction in this world, like
Norman, or as papa most likely did then; but, as they grow older,
they care less, and others pass them, and they know it does not
signify, for in our race all may win."

"But he has a great name. How many people come from a distance to
consult him! he is looked upon, too, in other ways! he can do
anything with the corporation."

Margaret smiled. "All this does not sound grand--it is not as if he
had set up in London."

"Oh, dear, I am so glad he did not."

"Shall I tell you what mamma told me he said about it, when Uncle
Mackenzie said he ought? He answered that he thought health and
happy home attachments were a better provision for us to set out in
life with than thousands."

"I am sure he was right!" said Ethel earnestly. "Then you don't