Three big boats were skimming down the harbour like great white sea-birds . A schooner was coming up the channel . The world of Four Winds was steeped in glowing colour , and subtle music , and strange glamour , and everybody should have been happy in it . But when Una turned in at Miss Cornelia 's gate her very legs had almost refused to carry her . Miss Cornelia was alone on the veranda . Una had hoped Mr. Elliott would be there . He was so big and hearty and twinkly that there would be encouragement in his presence . She sat on the little stool Miss Cornelia brought out and tried to eat the doughnut Miss Cornelia gave her . It stuck in her throat , but she swallowed desperately lest Miss Cornelia be offended . She could not talk ; she was still pale ; and her big , dark-blue eyes looked so piteous that Miss Cornelia concluded the child was in some trouble . `` What 's on your mind , dearie ? '' she asked . `` There 's something , that 's plain to be seen . '' Una swallowed the last twist of doughnut with a desperate gulp . `` Mrs. Elliott , wo n't you take Mary Vance ? '' she said beseechingly . Miss Cornelia stared blankly . `` Me ! Take Mary Vance ! Do you mean keep her ? ''
`` Yes -- keep her -- adopt her , '' said Una eagerly , gaining courage now XXXXX the ice was broken .
Elliott Una at in lest like of on that to