Since Aunt Jennie had taken up her abode in the family, Dexie had found great delight in solving some of the mysteries of cookery, and the toothsome articles she evolved, under her aunt’s direction, were exhibited with as much pride as Gussie felt when she adorned the new sofa pillow with such gorgeous butterflies that no one dared use it thereafter.  But Dexie was at her best when seated before the piano; then her face glowed with a beauty far exceeding that of her sister’s, for the soul shone in her face, and she would make the instrument respond to her feelings like a human being.  However ruffled her state of mind might be—­for, be it known, Dexie was not blessed with a very even temper—­she could pour out her troubles to her beloved instrument, as she would to a dear friend, and she always found peace and consolation there.

CHAPTER IV.

One evening, when Mr. Plaisted was still in Halifax, there was a small party held at Mrs. Gurney’s, to which the Sherwoods were invited.  Although the party was only for “grown-ups,” as Elsie Gurney said, invitations were given to Gussie and Dexie, as company for the young members of the party.  Among those present was Major Gurney, and several of his brother officers, whose gaily-attired figures added much to the beauty of the rooms.

During the evening music was introduced, and it need hardly be said that most of the songs sung were thoroughly English, and of course much applauded; but Dexie, in her loyalty to the land she called home, though living out of its borders, could scarcely conceal her annoyance, and turning to a table near, she picked up a book of views in order to hide her vexation.  Presently she became aware that the book before her was composed of views that were unmistakably English; and no sooner was their nationality noted than she dropped the book as if it had burnt her fingers.

“The idea of that little spot on the earth lording it over all creation!” she said to herself, and her lip curled in scorn.

Just then the young man at the piano struck up the notes of “Rule Britannia,” which was caught up at once by all the red-coated gentlemen present, as if the very words were a sweet morsel under their tongues.  It ended at last with a crash, and Dexie gave a sigh of relief when she saw the piano stool vacant.

But Mr. Gurney was making his way towards her, and, bending over her, said in a low voice: 

“Will you favor the company with some music, Miss Dexie?  I have often listened to some very enchanting strains from your fingers.”

“Well, I think I can play something that will be quite as enchanting as that we have just listened to,” Dexie replied.  “I don’t believe that piece was ever meant to be sung inside four walls, and those officers shout as if they intended to raise the roof.  I am afraid my playing will seem very tame after all that bluster,” she laughingly added.