GRANDMOTHER ELSIE

A SEQUEL TO"ELSIE'S WIDOWHOOD"

By MARTHA FINLEY

COMPLETE AUTHORIZED EDITION

"The web of our life is of a mingled yarn, good and ill together. "--Shakespeare

Published by arrangement withDodd, Mead and Company

A. L. BURT COMPANY

_PUBLISHERS_

New York Chicago

1882, BYDODD, MEAD & COMPANY

1910, BYCHARLES B. FINLEY

GRANDMOTHER ELSIE

CHAPTER I. 

 "Every state, Allotted to the race of man below, Is in proportion, doom'd to taste some sorrow. " --_Rowe_. 

The Ion family were at home again after their summer on the New Jerseycoast. 

It was a delightful morning early in October: the dew-drops on the stillgreen grass of the neatly kept lawn sparkled in the rays of the newlyrisen sun; the bright waters of the lakelet also, as, ruffled by thebreeze, they broke gently about the prow of the pretty row-boat moored tothe little wharf; the gardens were gay with bright-hued flowers, the treesgorgeous in their autumnal dress. 

But though doors and windows were open, the gardener and his assistants atwork in the grounds, there seemed a strange quiet about the place: whenthe men spoke to each other it was in subdued tones; there was nosound--as in other days--of little feet running hither and thither, norof childish prattle or laughter. 

Two horses stood ready saddled and bridled before the principal entranceto the mansion, and Mr. Horace Dinsmore was pacing the veranda to and frowith slow, meditative step, while Bruno, crouching beside the door, followed his movements with wistful, questioning eyes, doubtless wonderingwhat had become of his accustomed merry, romping play-mates. 

A light step came down the hall, and a lady in riding hat and habitstepped from the open doorway, stooped for an instant to touch the dog'shead caressingly with a "Poor Bruno! do you miss your playfellows?" thenglided quickly toward Mr. Dinsmore, who received her with open arms andtenderest caress. 

Then holding her off and scrutinizing the sweet, fair face with keen, searching eye, "You are looking better and brighter than I dared to hope, my darling, " he said. "Did you get some sleep?"

"Yes, papa, thank you, several hours. And you? did you rest well?"

"Yes, daughter. How are the children?"

"No worse, Arthur says; perhaps a trifle better. He, Elsie and Mammy arewith them now, and 'Mamma' can be spared for a short ride with herfather, " she said, smiling lovingly into the eyes that were gazing withthe tenderest fatherly affection upon her. 

"That is right; you need the air and exercise sorely; a few more days ofsuch close confinement and assiduous nursing would, I very much fear, tellseriously upon your health. "

He led her to the side of her steed and assisted her into the saddle as hespoke, then vaulted into his own with the agility of youth. 

"But where are Vi and her brothers?" Elsie asked, sending an inquiringglance from side to side. 

"I sent them on in advance. I wanted you quite to myself this once, " heanswered, as they turned and rode at a brisk canter down the avenue. 

"And I shall enjoy having my dear father all to myself for once, " sherejoined, with a touch of old-time gayety in look and tone. "Ah! papa, never a day passes, I think I might almost say never an hour, in which Ido not thank God for sparing you to me; you who have loved and cherishedme so long and so tenderly. "

"My own dear child!" he said in reply, "you and your love are among thegreatest blessings of my life. "

As they rode on side by side they talked of the youngest two of herchildren--Rose and Walter--both quite ill with measles; of her sister'sfamily, where also there was sickness among the little ones, and whitherMrs. Dinsmore had gone to assist in the nursing of her grandchildren; ofthe recent death of Enna at Magnolia Hall, the home of her daughter Molly;and of the anxiety of the younger Elsie because of a much longer silencethan usual on the part of her absent betrothed. 

She greatly feared that some evil had befallen him, and had not been ableto hide her distress from these two--the mother and grandfather who lovedher so--though making most earnest, unselfish efforts to conceal it fromall, especially her mother, whose tender heart was ever ready to bleed foranother's woe, and who had already griefs and anxieties enough of her own. 

They spoke of her with tenderest compassion, and affectionate pride in herloveliness of person and character, and her brave endurance of her trial. 

Enna's death could hardly be felt as a personal loss by either, but theysympathized deeply in the grief of her old father, with whom her faultsseemed to be buried in her grave, while he cherished a lively remembranceof all that had ever given him pleasure in her looks, words, or ways. 

He was growing old and feeble, and felt this, the death of his youngestchild, a very heavy blow. 

"My poor old father! I fear we shall not have him with us much longer, "Mr. Dinsmore remarked with emotion. 

Elsie's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Dear old grandpa!" shemurmured. "But, dear papa, be comforted! he may live for years yet, andshould it please God to take him, we know that our loss will be hisinfinite gain. "

"Yes; would that we had the same assurance in regard to all his childrenand grandchildren. "

Silence fell between them for some minutes. 

Elsie knew that her father, when making that last remark, was thinkingmore particularly of his half sister, Mrs. Conly, and her daughterVirginia. 

The two had gone to a fashionable watering-place to spend the lastfortnight of their summer's sojourn at the North, and ere it expiredVirginia had contracted a hasty marriage with a man of reputed wealth, whom she met there for the first time. 

The match was made with the full consent and approval of her mother--who, on rejoining the Dinsmores and Travillas, boasted much of "Virginia'sbrilliant position and prospects"--but without the knowledge of any otherrelative. No opportunity of making inquiries about the character or realcircumstances of the stranger to whom she committed the happiness of herlife, was afforded by Virginia to grandfather, uncle or brothers. 

Of late Mrs. Conly had ceased to boast of the match--scarcely mentionedVirginia's name; and Mr. Dinsmore had learned from Calhoun and Arthur thatVirginia's letters were no longer shown to any one, and seemed to irritateand depress their mother so unmistakably that they feared more and morethere was something very much amiss with their sister; yet the mothersteadily evaded all inquiries on the subject. 

Mr. Dinsmore presently told all this to his daughter, adding that he verymuch feared Virginia had made an utter wreck of her earthly happiness. 

"Poor Virgie!" sighed Elsie. "Ah! if only she had been blest with such afather as mine!" turning upon him a look of grateful love. 

"Or such a mother as my granddaughters have, " added Mr. Dinsmore, smilinginto the soft, sweet eyes. 

"What blessings my darlings are! how good and lovable in spite of myfailures in right training and example, " she said in sincere humility. 

"Those failures and mistakes have been very few, I think, " was his reply;"you have tried very earnestly and prayerfully to train them up in the waythey should go. And God is faithful to his promises--your children do notdepart from the right way; they do arise and call you blessed. "

"Papa, " she said, in moved tones, after a moment's silence, "we must notforget how much is due to the training, the example, and the prayers oftheir father. "

"No, daughter; and we can always plead in their behalf the preciouspromises to the seed of the righteous. 'I will pour my Spirit upon thyseed, and my blessing upon thine offspring. ' 'A good man leaveth aninheritance to his children's children. '"

"Yes, father, how often have those promises been my comfort and support asthe inheritance of both my children and myself; inherited by me from bothyou and my sainted mother and her pious ancestors. "

"And from mine; for my mother was a devoted Christian and came of a longline of God-fearing men and women. But I see nothing yet of Edward and hisparty; they must have taken another road. "

"Yes, sir; and shall we not turn now? I ought not to be long away from mypoor sick darlings. "

"I think it would be well to return by the other road; we shall reach itin a moment, and our ride will be lengthened by but a half mile or so. "

She acquiesced in his decision, as was her custom. 

On the homeward way, as they neared the cross-road leading to the city, they saw a boy on horseback coming at a hard gallop down it in theirdirection. 

On catching sight of them he held aloft what looked like a letter, wavingit about his head in evident desire to attract their attention; then as hereached their road he halted and waited for them to come up. 

"Mr. Dinsmore, from the Oaks or Ion, isn't it?" he queried, lifting hiscap and bowing to the lady and her escort as they reined in their steedsclose at hand. 

"Yes. "

"A telegram for you, sir. "

Mr. Dinsmore took the missive, tore it open and glanced at the contents, then, handing it to Elsie, paid the boy and dismissed him. 

"Oh, my poor darling!" she exclaimed, her tears dropping upon the paper. "Father, what shall we do? tell her at once? Perhaps that would be best. "

"Yes; I think it is her right. But of course it must be done as gently aspossible. Dear daughter, do not grieve too sorely for her; try to trusther as well as yourself in your heavenly Father's hands. "

"I will, papa, I will! but oh my heart bleeds for her!"

"Will you break the news to her? or shall I?"

"My kindest of fathers! you would if possible spare me every trial, bearall my burdens. But perhaps the dear child may suffer less in hearing thesad news from her mother's lips, as, in her place, I could bear it betterfrom yours than from any other. "

"Unselfish as ever, my darling, " he said, "but I believe you areright--that the blow will be somewhat softened to Elsie coming to herthrough the medium of her tender and dearly loved mother. "

"I think, papa, " Mrs. Travilla said, checking her horse to a walk as theyentered the avenue at Ion, "I shall reserve my communication until my poorchild has had her breakfast. "

He expressed approval of her decision, adding interrogatively, "You willbreakfast with the family this morning?"

"Yes, sir; if I find all going well in the sick-room. "

A servant was in waiting to lead the horses away to the stable. Violet, Edward, Harold and Herbert, just returned from their ride, were on theveranda. 

Edward hastened to assist his mother to alight, and all gathered about herand their grandfather with morning greetings spoken in cheerful butsubdued tones; no one forgetting for a moment the illness of the littlepet brother and sister, but all inquiring anxiously how they and "Mamma"had passed the night, and what was cousin Arthur's report of theircondition this morning. 

"No worse, my dears; and we will hope that they may soon be decidedlybetter, " the mother answered, returning their greetings with affectionatewarmth and smiling sweetly upon them. "But you must let me go at once tothe sick-room, and if all is well I shall be down presently to breakfastwith grandpa and you. "

That announcement was heard with the greater pleasure because her lovedface had seldom been seen at the table for some days past. 

The face was bright and hopeful as she spoke, but an unwonted expressionof sadness and anxiety came over it as she turned quickly away and wentswiftly through the spacious entrance hall and up the broad stairway. 

No earthly eye saw that look, but the traces of tears on her mother'scheeks had not escaped Vi's keen observation. 

"Grandpa, " she said in low, tremulous tones, following him into thelibrary, whither he went to await the summons to breakfast, "what hasbeen distressing mamma so? is it that she is so anxious about Elsie andWalter? May I not know?"

Mr. Dinsmore paused a moment before he replied. "You shall know all aboutit, my dear child, before very long. Be satisfied for the present with theassurance that your mother's distress is for another's woe. You know whata tender, sympathetic heart she has. I cannot deny that our little onesare seriously ill, but their case is very far from hopeless. "

CHAPTER II. 

 "Within her heart was his image, Cloth'd in the beauty of love and youth, as last she beheld him, Only more beautiful made by his deathlike silence and absence. " --_Longfellow_. 

The sick ones ware sleeping quietly when the mother entered; the doctorhad already breakfasted, and would assist Aunt Chloe and Dinah in watchingbeside them for the next hour, so the two Elsies--mother anddaughter--went down together to the breakfast parlor. 

They were a more silent party than usual at meal-time, for no one couldforget the two absent members of the family, or that they were sufferingupon beds of sickness; yet there was no gloom in any face or voice: theirfew words were spoken in cheerful tones, and each seemed unselfishlyintent upon promoting the comfort and happiness of all the others; on thepart of the children, especially of their grandfather and mother; eachyoung heart was evidently full to overflowing of tenderest sympathy andlove for her. 

She had been closely confined to the sick-room for several days, so thatit was a treat to have her with them at breakfast and at family worship, which followed directly upon the conclusion of the meal. 

It surprised them a little that when the short service came to an end, shedid not even then return at once to her sick little ones, but putting on agarden hat invited her eldest daughter to do likewise and come with herfor a short stroll in the grounds. 

"It will do us both good, " she said as they stepped from the veranda uponthe broad, gravelled walk, "the air is so sweet and pure at this earlyhour; and you have not been out in it at all, have you?"

"No, mamma; and what a treat it is to take it in your dear company, " Elsieresponded, gathering a lovely, sweet-scented flower and placing it in thebosom of her mother's dress. 

"Thank you, love, " Mrs. Travilla said; then went on to speak feelingly ofthe beauty and fragrance that surrounded them, and the unnumberedblessings of their lot in life. 

"Mamma, you seem to have a heart always filled with love and gratitude toGod, and never to be troubled with the least rebellious feeling, or anydoubts or fears for the future, " remarked Elsie, sighing slightly as shespoke. 

"Have we any right or reason to indulge repining, doubts, or fears, whenwe know that all is ordered for us by One who loves us with aneverlasting and infinite love, and who is all-wise and all-powerful? O mydarling, no! Well may we say with the Psalmist, 'I will fear no evil, forthou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Surely goodnessand mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in thehouse of the Lord forever. ' Oh what a blessed assurance! goodness andmercy while here in this world of trial--all things working together forour good, that so we may be brought at last safely to our desiredhaven--and then to be forever with the Lord!"

"Mamma, I have been so anxious and troubled about my little brother andsister, and about Lester, I needed the lesson you have just given me, andhope I shall profit by it. "

"My dearest child, have faith in God; try to believe with all your heartthat he will never send you or any of his children one unneeded pang. I amsure you could never think I--your tender mother--would give you theslightest pain except for your certain good; and what is my love for youcompared to that of your Saviour? who died that you might live!"

"Mamma, " cried the young girl, pausing in her walk, laying her hand on hermother's arm and looking searchingly into the sweet, compassionate face, while her own grew deathly pale, "what is it you are trying to prepare mefor? O mamma!"

A rustic seat stood close at hand. 

"Let us sit down here for a moment, dear daughter, " Mrs. Travilla said, drawing Elsie to it with an arm about her waist. "You are right, mychild--I have news for you. Oh, not the worst, dearest!" as Elsie seemedto gasp for breath. "Lester lives, but is very ill with typhoid fever. "

"Mamma!" cried Elsie, starting to her feet, "I must go to him! go at once. O dearest mother, do not hinder me!" and she clasped her hands in piteousentreaty, the big tears rapidly chasing each other down her pale cheeks. 

"If I could go with you, " faltered the mother, "or your grandfather; but Ican neither leave nor take my little ones, and he would never consent toleave me, or his poor old father, who seems just tottering on the verge ofthe grave. "

"I know! I see! but, O mother, mother! how can I let him die all alone ina stranger land? Think if it had been you and my father!"

"What is your entreaty, daughter?" Mr. Dinsmore asked, coming up andlaying his hand affectionately upon his grandchild's shoulder. 

"To go to him--to Lester, grandpa. Oh, how can I stay away and leave himto die alone? to die for lack of the good nursing I could give him, perhaps to the saving of his life!"

"My poor child! my poor dear child!" he said, caressing her; "we will seewhat can be done in the way of finding a suitable escort, and if that canbe obtained your mother will not, I think, withhold her consent. "

He had been telling the news to the others, and Edward had followed him, anxious to express the sympathy for his sister with which his heart wasfull. 

"An escort, grandpa?" he said. "Would mine be sufficient? Mamma, if youwill permit me, I shall gladly go to Lester, either with or withoutElsie. "

"My dear boy!" was all his mother said, her tones tremulous with emotion, while his grandfather turned and regarded him with doubtful scrutiny. 

"Oh, thank you, brother!" cried Elsie. "Mamma, surely you can trust me tohim! Who loves me better? except yourself--and who would take such tendercare of me?"

"Mamma, I would guard her with my life!" exclaimed Edward earnestly. 

"My dear son, I do not doubt it, " Mrs. Travilla answered, turning upon herfather a half-inquiring, half-entreating look. 

"If no older or more experienced person can be found. "

He paused, and Elsie burst out: "O grandpa, dear grandpa, don't say that!There is no time to lose! no time to look for other escort!"

"That is true, my child; and we will not waste any time. Make yourpreparations as rapidly as you can, and if nothing better offers in themean while, and your mother consents to Edward's proposition, you shall gowith him--and Ben who travelled all over Europe with your father andmyself--as your protectors. "

She thanked him fervently through her tears, while her mother said, "Ahyes, that is a good thought, papa! Ben shall go with them. "

"Better go now and at once select whatever you wish to take with you, andset some one to packing your trunks, " he said. "Edward, do you dolikewise, and I will examine the morning papers for information in regardto trains and the sailing of the next steamer. Daughter dear, " to Mrs. Travilla, "you need give yourself no concern about any of these matters. "

"No, I shall trust everything to you, my best of fathers, and go back atonce to my sick darlings, " she said, giving him a look of grateful love. 

Then passing her arm affectionately about her daughter's waist, she drewher on toward the house, her father and son accompanying them. 

She parted with Elsie at the door of the sick-room, embracing her tenderlyand bidding her "'Be strong and of a good courage, ' my darling, for 'theeternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. '"

"Dearest mamma, what sweet words!" said the weeping girl. "Oh, how glad Iam that God reigns! and that I know he will send to each of his childrenjust what is best. "

She turned away as the door closed upon her mother, and found Violet closeat her side. 

There was a silent affectionate embrace, and with their arms about eachother they sought Elsie's dressing-room. 

"Grandpa and Edward have told me, " Violet said, "and you will let me helpyou, my poor dear sister? help in thinking and selecting what you willwant to carry with you. "

"Gladly, thankfully, for oh, I seem scarcely able to collect my thoughts!How can I leave mamma and all of you? and the darling little brother andsister so ill! and yet how can I stay away from Lester when he is sick andalone in a strange land, with not a friend to speak a cheering word, smooth his pillow, give his medicine, or see that he has proper food? OVi, can I help going to him, even at the sacrifice of leaving all othernear and dear ones?"

"I think our mother would have done it for papa, " Violet answered, kissingElsie's cheek. 

Mr. Dinsmore having first seen Ben, and found him more than willing to gowith the children of the master he had loved as his own soul, went to thelibrary, looked over the papers, and had just found the information hesought, when the sound of horses' hoofs on the avenue drew his attention, and glancing from the window he saw the Roselands carriage drive up withhis sister, Mrs. Conly, inside. 

He hastened out to assist her to alight. 

"Good-morning, Horace, " she said. "Is my son Arthur here?"

"Yes, Louise, he has spent the last hour or more in attendance upon oursick little ones. Ah, here he is to speak for himself!" as the youngdoctor stepped from the open doorway. "But won't you come in?"

She demurred. "Is there any danger, Arthur?"

"Danger of what, mother?"

"You certainly understood me, " she said half angrily; "danger ofcontagion, of course. "

"None for you, surely, mother, and none you could carry home unless youcame in personal contact with the sick children. "

"I shall sit here for a moment, then, " she said, stepping from thecarriage and taking a chair upon the veranda. "How are they to-day?"

"The sick little ones? The disease has not yet reached its crisis. "

"I hope they'll get safely over it: it's a good thing to have over. Howsoon can you be spared from here, Arthur?"

"Now, mother, if I am needed elsewhere, I shall not be needed here--atleast am not likely to be--for some hours. "

"Then I wish you'd come home directly to see what you can do for yourgrandfather. He doesn't seem at all well to-day. "

"My father ill?" Mr. Dinsmore exclaimed in a tone of alarm and concern. 

"It hardly amounts to that, I presume, " Mrs. Conly answered coldly; "buthe is not well; didn't eat a mouthful of breakfast. "

"Grandpa, did you find what you wanted in the morning paper?" queriedEdward, joining them at this moment. "Ah, Aunt Louise, how d'ye do?"

She nodded indifferently, listening with some curiosity for her brother'sreply. 

"Yes, " he said; "and I think you should leave to-night; for by so doingyou will reach New York in time to take the next steamer, if you meet withno great detention on the way. Do you think you can both be ready?"

"I certainly can, sir, and have no doubt Elsie will also. "

"What is it? off to Europe?" asked Mrs. Conly in surprise. "What shouldcall you two children there at this time?"

Mr. Dinsmore briefly stated the facts, giving the news of the morning, Elsie's wish, and Edward's offer to be her escort to Italy. 

"If she were a daughter of mine, I should consider a female companion anabsolute necessity, " was Mrs. Conly's comment. 

"She will take her maid of course, " said Mr. Dinsmore and Edward, bothspeaking at once. 

"Pooh! a maid! I mean a lady relative or friend. I said a companion, andthat a maid could not be. "

"I should be extremely glad if such could be found in the few hours thatwe have for our preparations, " said her brother, "but I know of none; theFairview family are absent, Violet is too young----"

"Of course, " interrupted Mrs. Conly; "but there are other relatives. Iwould go myself if my means would warrant the expense. "

"If you are in earnest, Louise, you need not hesitate for a moment on thatscore; it shall not cost you a penny, " her brother said, looking at her inpleased but half-incredulous surprise. 

"I was never more in earnest, " she answered. "I don't think you give memuch credit for affection for your grandchildren, yet I certainly care toomuch for the one in question to willingly see her undertake such a journeywithout the support of female companionship. And I can be spared fromhome if you and Arthur will look after father; I have no young child now, and Aunt Maria is fully capable of taking charge of all household matters. If you wish me to go you have only to say so and guarantee my expenses, and I shall go home, oversee the packing of my trunks, and be ready assoon as the young people are. "

"Your offer is a most kind one, Louise, and I accept it even withoutwaiting to consult with my daughter, " Mr. Dinsmore said. 

"Then I must go home at once, and set about my preparations immediately, "she said, rising to take leave. 

Arthur Conly as well as Edward Travilla had been a surprised but silentlistener to the short dialogue. 

"Can you spare your mother, Arthur?" his uncle asked. 

"We must, sir, if it pleases her to go, and for the sake of my two sweetcousins--Elsie senior and Elsie junior--I willingly consent. You take thenight train I understand?" turning to Edward. 

"Yes; to-night. "

"I shall see that my mother is at the depôt in season;" and with that theytook their departure, Mr. Dinsmore saying, as he bade them adieu, that heshould ride over presently to see his father. 

Turning toward Edward, he saw that the lad's eyes were following theRoselands' carriage down the avenue, his face wearing a rueful look. 

"Grandpa, " he said with a sigh, "I see no necessity for Aunt Louise'scompany, and, indeed, should very much prefer to be without it. "

"You forget that you are speaking to your grandfather of his sister, " Mr. Dinsmore answered, with a touch of sternness in his tone. 

"I beg your pardon, sir, " returned Edward. "She is so unlike you that I amapt to forget the relationship. "

"I know you do not always find your aunt's company agreeable, " remarkedMr. Dinsmore, "and I do not blame you on that account, yet I think it willbe an advantage to you, and especially to your sister, to have with you awoman of her age and knowledge of the world. I wish I could go with youmyself, but I cannot think of leaving either my old father or your motherin this time of trial. "

"No, sir, oh no! Delightful as it would be to both of us for you to makeone of our little party, we would not for the world deprive dear mamma ofthe support and comfort of your presence here; nor our dear oldgrandfather either. "

CHAPTER III. 

 "Filial ingratitude? Is it not as this mouth should tear this hand For lifting food to 't?" --_Shaks. Lear_. 

"This is a very sudden resolve of yours, mother, isn't it?" Dr. Conlyasked, as they drove through the great gates at Ion, into the highway. 

"It is, Arthur, for I had not dreamed of such a wild scheme on the part ofthose two silly children until I heard of it from their grandfather'slips; nor could have believed he would sanction such folly. They ought tomake Elsie stay where she is, and if young Leland dies it will but rid thefamily of a prospective plebeian alliance. "

"Very possibly of the sweet girl also, " was Arthur's grave response. 

"Nonsense! it is only in novels that girls die of broken hearts. "

"Granting that for argument's sake, it must be very hard to live withone. "

"Well; it seems she is to be allowed to go, and my offer removes the mostserious objection; yet I have no idea that the sacrifice on my part willbe at all appreciated. "

"Then why make it, mother? I can readily find a substitute; there is Mrs. Foster, whose health would be greatly benefited by a long sea voyage. She, I feel certain, would think it a great boon to be allowed this opportunityof going without expense and in the company of two young people of whomshe is very fond. And you know, mother, that though poor now she wasformerly wealthy, is a perfect lady, and her having been to Europe once ortwice would make her all the more valuable companion to them. "

"You are quite too late with your suggestion, Arthur, " was the coldlyspoken reply. "I have passed my word and shall not break it. "

Her son gave her a look of keen scrutiny, then turned his face from herwith a scarcely audible sigh. He read her motives and feelings far moreclearly than she suspected. 

The truth was she was weary of the dulness of home now that the shadow ofbereavement was upon it, and the etiquette of mourning forbade herattendance upon public assemblages of whatever kind, except church, anddid not allow even so much as a formal call upon strangers oracquaintance. The society of her now old, feeble, and depressed father waswearisome to her also. 

Beside she had long had a hankering after a European tour, and this wastoo good an opportunity to let slip. Also it would give her a chance tosee for herself what was the trouble with Virginia, whose letters of latehad been of a very disquieting kind; full of reproaches and vague hints ofunhappiness and disappointment in her new life. 

There would probably be a few hours between their arrival in New York andthe sailing of the steamer, in which she could call to see Virginia andlearn with certainty exactly how she was situated. 

Mrs. Travilla received the news of her aunt's offer with a gratitude whichit by no means merited, and the younger Elsie, though not fond of her AuntLouise's society, felt that her presence might prove a comfort and supportwhen she and Edward should find themselves strangers in a foreign land. 

The mother sought this dear eldest child with loving words of cheer andcounsel whenever she could be spared from the sick-room, and Violet, Harold, and Herbert hung about her as a treasure soon to be snatched fromthem, each eager to render any assistance in his or her power. 

The hour of parting came all too soon, and with many tears and embracesthe young travellers were sent on their way. 

The mother's last words to Elsie, as she held her close to her heart withmany a tear and tender caress, were: "'Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them, for the Lord thy God, he it is that dothgo with thee, he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. ' To him, the God ofyour fathers, do I trust you, my precious child. "

"You also, my dear, dear boy!" taking Edward's hand: "but rejoice in thethought that you are together, mutual helpers and comforters. "

"Be sure to telegraph us from New York, Edward, again as soon as possibleafter landing on the other side, and a third time when you have seenLester and can report his exact condition, " was Mr. Dinsmore's partinginjunction, as with a most affectionate farewell he left them in thesleeping-car. 

Mrs. Conly had joined them at the depôt, according to promise. 

All three retired at once to their berths, and Elsie wept herself tosleep, thinking of the dear ones left behind; especially the mother whohad so tenderly cherished her from her birth and the sick little ones who, she feared, might not be there to welcome her return. Thinking too of himto whom she was going, his probable suffering, and the dread possibilitythat at her journey's end she should find only his grave. 

They reached New York in good season, having met with no accident ordetention. The steamer would not leave for some hours, but it was Elsie'sdesire to go directly on board. 

"I think that will be your best plan, " said Mrs. Conly. "You can thensettle yourself in your state-room at once; and while Dinah unpacks whatyou will need on the voyage, you can lie in your berth and rest. You arelooking greatly fatigued. "

"You will come with us, Aunt Louise, will you not?" both the young peopleasked. 

"No, I must see Virginia. I shall have time for an hour's chat with herand yet to reach the vessel some time before the hour fixed for hersailing. Edward, you will see that my luggage is taken on board?"

"Certainly, aunt; but shall we not first drive to Virginia's residence andleave you there? And I return for you after seeing my sister and theluggage on board the steamer?"

"No, not at all!" she answered stiffly. "I am obliged for your offer, butwhere would be the use? You may tell Ben to call a hack for me. I'll haveit wait at Virginia's door and drive me to the wharf when I am ready togo. "

Edward, thinking he had never known her so considerate and kind, hastenedto carry out her wishes, bidding Ben engage two hacks--one for Mrs. Conlyand another for themselves. 

Consideration for her nephew and niece had nothing to do with Mrs. Conly'splans and arrangements. If, as she greatly feared, Virginia were living inother than aristocratic style, she would not for the world have it knownamong the relatives who had heard her boasts in regard to Virgie's grandmatch; "so much better than Isa had been led into while under the care ofher grandfather and uncle. "

She had never before heard of the street mentioned in Virginia's lastletter, and her heart misgave her as to its being one of the mostfashionable for the abodes of the wealthy. The curiously scrutinizing lookand odd smile of the hack-driver when she gave him the address did nottend to reassure her. 

"Drive me there as quickly as you can, " she ordered, drawing herself upand flashing an indignant glance at him. "I have no time to waste. "

"Sure, mum, I'll do that same, " he returned, touching his horses with thewhip. 

"Where are you taking me? What do you mean by bringing me into such a vileregion as this?" she demanded presently, as the hack turned into a narrowand very dirty street. 

"It's the shortest cut to the place ye said ye wanted to go till, mum, " heanswered shortly. 

She sank back with a sigh and closed her eyes for a moment. She was veryweary with her long journey and more depressed than she had ever been inher life before. 

The drive seemed the longest and most unpleasant she had ever undertaken;she began to wish she had been content to sail for Europe without tryingto find Virginia. But at last the vehicle stopped, the driver reached downfrom his seat and opened the door. 

His passenger put out her head, glanced this way and that, scanned thehouse before her, and angrily demanded, "What are you stopping here for?"

"Bekase ye tould me to, mum; it's the place ye said ye wanted to cometill. "

Mrs. Conly looked at the number over the door, saw that it was the one shehad given him, then in a voice she vainly tried to make coldlyindifferent, inquired of some children who had gathered on the sidewalk togaze in open-mouthed curiosity at her and the hack, if this were ----street. 

The answer confirmed the driver's assertion, and she hastily alighted. 

The house was a large tenement swarming with inhabitants, as was evidencedby the number of heads in nearly every front window, drawn thither by theunusual event of the stopping of a hack before the door of entrance. Itstood wide open, giving a view of an unfurnished hall and stairway, bothof which were in a very untidy condition. 

"Does Mr. Henry Neuville live here?" Mrs. Conly asked, addressing thegroup of staring children. 

"Dunno, " said one. "Guess not, " said another. 

"Mebbe thems the grand folks as moved intill the second story frontt'other week, " observed a third. "I'll show ye the way, lady, " and herushed past her into the house and ran nimbly up the dirty stairs. 

Mrs. Conly lifted her skirts and followed, her heart sinking like lead inher bosom. Could it be possible that Virginia had come to this?

Halting before the door of the front room on the second floor, the ladgave a thundering rap, then opened it, shouting, "Here's a old lady to seeye, Mrs. Novel; if that's yer name. "

"What do you mean by rushing in on me in this rude way, you young rascal?"demanded a shrill female voice, which Mrs. Conly instantly recognized asthat of her daughter. "Begone instantly! begone, I say!"

"Go, go!" Mrs. Conly said to the boy, in half smothered tones, putting asmall coin into his hand; then staggering into the room she dropped into achair, gasping for breath. 

"Virginia, Virginia! can it be possible that I find you in such a placeas this?" she cried, as the latter started up from a lounge on which shehad been lying with a paper-covered novel in her hand. 

Her hair was in crimping-pins, her dress most slatternly, and hersurroundings were in keeping with her personal appearance. 

"Mamma!" she exclaimed in utter astonishment and confusion. "How did youget here? how did you come? You should have sent me word. I have no way toaccommodate you. "

"Don't be alarmed, I have no intention of staying more than an hour. Istart for Europe by to-day's steamer, with Elsie and Edward Travilla. Lester Leland's ill, dying I presume, and the silly love-sick girl mustneeds rush to the rescue. "

"And why are you to go with her? why don't the mother and grandfather andthe whole family accompany her, after their usual fashion of all keepingtogether?"

"Because Rosie and Walter are down with the measles; much too ill totravel. "

"And you are going to Europe to enjoy yourself, while I must live here ina New York tenement house occupied by the very dregs of society, and asthe wife of a drunkard, gambler, and rake; a man--or rather a brute--wholives by his wits, abuses me like the pickpocket that he is, half starvesme, and expects me to do all the work, cooking, cleaning, and everythingelse, even to washing and ironing of the few clothes he hasn't pawned; me!a lady brought up to have servants to wait upon her at every turn!"

"O Virgie, Virgie! it can't be so bad as that!" cried her mother, claspingher hands in an agony of distress, and gazing piteously at her, the hottears streaming down her face. 

"I tell you it is that and worse! and all your fault, for you made thematch! you hurried me into it lest grandpa, uncle, or brothers shouldinterfere, find out that the man's morals were not good according to theirhigh standard, and prevent me from marrying him. "

"You were in as great haste and as much opposed to their interference asI, Virginia!" the mother retorted, drawing herself up in proud anger. 

"Well, and what of that! you brought me up, and I was only following outthe teachings you have given me from my cradle. I tell you it was yourdoing; but I must reap what you have sowed. I wish I was dead!" She flungher book from her as she spoke, turned and paced the room, her handsclenched, her eyes flashing, her teeth set hard. 

She had not drawn near her mother, or given her one word of welcome orthanks for having turned aside from her journey to inquire into herwelfare. 

"'Oh, sharper than a serpent's tooth it is to have a thankless child!'"exclaimed Mrs. Conly in anguished accents, rising as if to go, butinstantly falling heavily to the floor. 

Virginia rushed to her side, half frantic with terror. 

"Oh, mother, mother, what is it? What have I done! what have I done! Iknow you're the best friend I have in the world!" she cried, stooping overher, loosening her bonnet-strings and dress, and trying vainly to lift herto the lounge, for she was a large, heavy woman and now in a state ofutter insensibility, her face purple, her breathing stertorous. 

The sound of her fall and Virginia's terrified shriek had brought theneighbors flocking upon the scene; some of the boldest opening the doorand ushering themselves in without the ceremony of knocking. 

"The lady's in a fit!" cried a woman, hurrying to Virginia's assistance;"you've druv her to distraction; you shouldn't a ben so abusive; I couldhear ye clear into my room a scoldin' and accusin' of her of makin' yourmatch fer ye. "

"Run for a doctor, some of you!" cried Virginia, standing by the couchwhere, with the woman's help, she had laid her mother, and wringing herhands in helpless distress. "Oh, she'll die! she'll die! Mother, mother!I'm sorry I was so cruel! Oh, I take it all back. Oh, mother, speak tome!"

"'Tain't no use, " said the woman, "she don't hear ye. An' if she did shecouldn't speak. I've seen folks struck down with apoplexy afore. "

"Oh, will she die? will she die?" groaned the wretched daughter, droppingon her knees beside the couch. 

"Can't tell, mum; sometimes they die in a little bit, and sometimes theyget purty well over it and live on for years. Here, let me put anotherpillar under her head, and some o' ye there run and fetch the coldestwater that ever ye can git. "

Some one had summoned a physician, and he presently came hurrying in. Hisfirst act was to send every one from the room except the patient and hertwo attendants. 

With tears and sobs Virginia besought him to save her mother's life. 

"I shall certainly do my best, madam, " he said, "but very little can bedone at present. What was the immediate cause of the attack?"

Virginia answered vaguely that her mother was fatigued with a long journeyand had been worried and fretted. 

"This is not her home?" glancing around the meanly furnished dirty room. 

"No; neither she nor I have been accustomed to such surroundings, "answered Virginia haughtily. "Can you not see that we are ladies? We arefrom the South, and mother has but just arrived. Oh, tell me, is she goingto die?"

"Her recovery is doubtful. If she has other near relatives who care to seeher alive, I advise you to summon them with all speed. "

"Oh dear! oh dear! you must save her!" cried Virginia frantically, wringing her hands. "I can't have her die. They'll say I killed her! Butevery word I said was true; she did all in her power to make the matchthat has ruined my happiness and all my prospects for life. "

"So you, her own daughter, have brought this on by cruel taunts andreproaches!" the physician said in a tone of mingled contempt andindignation. "I hope you feel that the least you can do now is to take thebest possible care of her. "

"How can I?" sobbed Virginia. "I've no money to pay a nurse or buycomforts for mother, and I know nothing about nursing or cooking for sickor well. I wasn't brought up to work. "

A boy now came to the door with a message from the hackman; "he couldn'tstay any longer if the lady wasn't going to the steamer, and he wantedhis pay. "

Virginia opened a small satchel that had dropped from her mother's hand, found her purse, paid the man his dues, and counting the remainder toldthe doctor there was enough to provide what would be needed for thepatient until other relatives could be summoned, and that should be doneat once by telegrams to be paid by the recipients. 

The doctor approved, and kindly offered to attend to sending the messagesfor her. 

CHAPTER IV. 

 "O gloriously upon the deep The gallant vessel rides, And she is mistress of the winds, And mistress of the tides. " --_Miss Landon_. 

Meanwhile Edward had taken his sister on board the steamer, and she, greatly exhausted by grief, anxiety, and fatigue, had at once retired toher berth. 

Edward also was weary and in need of sleep, so presently went to hisstate-room, leaving Ben to attend to the luggage and watch for Mrs. Conly's arrival. 

Faithful Ben waited patiently about for a couple of hours, then began togrow uneasy lest Mrs. Conly should not arrive in season. Another hourpassed, and he reluctantly roused his young master to ask what could bedone. 

"What's wanted?" Edward asked, waked by Ben's loud rap on the state-roomdoor. 

"Miss Louise she hasn't come yet, Marse Ed'ard, " he said, "and desteamah'll be startin' fo' long. I don' know whar to go to look her up, soplease excuse me for rousin' ye, sah. "

"Hasn't come yet, do you say, Ben? and the vessel about to sail?"exclaimed Edward in dismay, springing from his berth to open the door. "Why, yes, " looking at his watch, "there's barely half an hour left, and Idon't see what we can do. "

"No time now fo' me to go an' hunt up Miss Louise, Marse Ed'ard? Ise berrysorry, sah, dat I didn't come soonah to ax you 'bout it, but I didn't liketo 'sturb you, " said Ben, looking much distressed. 

"Never mind, Ben, " Edward answered kindly, "you couldn't have gone forher, because she gave me no address, and I have not the least idea whereto send for her. "

"Den what am to be done, sah?"

"We will have to sail without her. I could not think of asking my sisterto wait for the next steamer, " Edward said, more as if thinking aloud thantalking to Ben. 

The latter bowed respectfully and withdrew, but only to come hurrying backthe next moment with a telegram from Virginia. 

"Mother taken suddenly ill. Remains with me. Send luggage to No. ----street. "

This news of his aunt's illness caused Edward regret not wholly unmingledwith satisfaction in the thought of being spared her companionship on thevoyage and afterward. 

He read the message aloud to Ben. "You see it would have done no good ifwe could have gone for her, " he remarked. "But go, make haste to have thebaggage sent ashore to the address given here. "

Elsie's state-room adjoined her brother's. She too had been roused byBen's knock and overheard a part of what passed between him and his youngmaster. Dinah also was listening. 

"What dat dey say, Miss Elsie?" she queried in a startled tone, "MissLouise sick?"

"I think that was what Master Edward said; but go to his door, Dinah, andask. "

Edward came himself with his answer and bringing a second telegram; thistime from their grandfather, saying the children were decidedly better, all the rest of the family well. 

"Oh, what good news!" exclaimed Elsie. "But poor Aunt Louise! I wish weknew her exact condition. Do you not think it must have been a suddenseizure?"

"Yes, of either illness or desire to remain behind. Don't let it worryyou, sister dear. You have already quite enough of anxiety to endure. "

"No, " she said, with a sweet, patient smile, "I am trying not to beanxious or troubled about anything, but to obey the sweet command, 'casting all your care upon Him. '"

"'For He careth for you, '" added Edward, completing the quotation. "Itis, as you say, a sweet command, most restful to those who obey it. Haveyou slept?"

"Yes, I have had a long and very refreshing nap; still I have notrecovered from my fatigue, and shall not leave my state-room for some timeyet. "

"Let me send in your supper, " he said. "I hope it will refresh you stillmore, and that after it you may feel equal to a turn on deck with me. Itwill be moonlight, and if you wrap up well you will not find the air morethan bracingly keen. "

"Thank you, " she said. "It is altogether likely I shall find the exerciseof a short promenade rather restful than otherwise, after being so longcramped up in the cars. You are a dear, good brother to me, Ned, " sheadded, laying her hand affectionately on his arm as he sat on the edge ofthe berth close by her side. "But how strange it seems that we two arestarting off on this long voyage alone!"

"I'm so proud to be trusted to take care of you, Elsie, " he returned, bending over her and tenderly smoothing her luxuriant hair. "I used tolook up to you years ago, but now----"

"You look down on me?" she interrupted sportively. "No great feat, MasterNed, while I lie here. "

"Nor when we stand side by side, " he returned in the same tone, 'seeing Ihave grown to be a full head taller than you. But truth compels me toacknowledge that I am your superior in nothing else except physicalstrength. "

"You might add knowledge of the world, you have had to rely on your ownjudgment so much oftener than I who have so seldom left mamma's side. Dear, dear mamma! Oh, Ned, how long will it be before I see her again?"

She wept as she spoke, and Edward felt for the moment strongly inclined tojoin her. But instead he tried to cheer her. 

"We will hope Cousin Arthur may prescribe a sea voyage for grandpa and thechildren before long, and then we shall have the whole family joining usin Italy. "

"How delightful that would be, Ned!" she said, smiling through her tears. 

"And do you know, " he went on gayly, "it is strongly impressed upon methat we shall find Lester convalescent, and by good nursing and ourcheering companionship so help it on that we shall have him a well man ina few weeks. "

"Ah, if it might be so!" she sighed. "'But He doeth all things well, ' andoh how precious are His promises! 'As thy days thy strength shall be. ' 'Iwill never leave thee nor forsake thee. ' 'When thou passest through thewaters I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall notoverflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not beburned; neither shall the flames kindle upon thee. ' And then that gloriousassurance, 'We _know_ that all things work together for good to them thatlove God. ' Oh, Ned, our one great need is more and stronger faith!"

"Yes, the faith which worketh by love! Let me read you that eighth chapterof Romans. I do not know what could be more comforting, " he said, taking asmall Testament from his pocket. 

"Thank you, " she said when he had finished. "Ah, what could be sweeterthan those concluding verses! 'For I am persuaded that neither death, norlife, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, northings to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall beable to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus ourLord!'"

"Elsie, I think if our mother had never done anything else for herchildren, " remarked Edward earnestly, "they would owe her an eternal debtof gratitude for storing their minds as she has with the very words ofinspiration. "

"Yes, 'the entrance of Thy words giveth light, it giveth understanding tothe simple. ' 'The law of Thy mouth is better unto me than thousands ofgold and silver. '"

Ben came to the door. "Dey says dey's goin' to fotch up de anchor andstart de wessel, Marse Ed'ard. Don't you and Miss Elsie want for to seeit?"

"Yes, sister, do you not wish to see the last you may, for the present, ofyour dear native land?" queried Edward in a lively tone. "'Twill take buta moment to don hat and shawl, and I shall be proud to give you thesupport of my arm. "

"Yes, I do, " she said, rising with alacrity and hastily making the needfulpreparations. 

Ben preceded them to the deck and found comfortable seats for them in thefront rank of those who were there on the same errand. 

Elsie's tears began to fall as she saw the shore receding. 

"Oh, " she murmured very low and sadly, leaning on her brother's shoulderand clinging more closely to him, "shall we ever return? ever see againthe dear land of our birth and all our loved ones left behind?"

"There is every reason to hope so, dear sister, " he whispered in return. "A voyage to Europe is not the great and perilous undertaking it used tobe; and we are under the same protecting care here as on land. 'And theLord, he it is that doth go before thee, he will be with thee, he willnot fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed. '"

She looked her thanks. "'Fear not;' sweet command! I must, I will obey it. Oh, how true it is that in keeping His commands there is great reward! Iam fully convinced that in the perfect keeping of them all perfecthappiness would be found. "

A gentleman standing near turned suddenly round. The tones of Elsie'svoice had reached him, though very few of the words. 

"Ah, I thought I could not be mistaken in that voice, " he saiddelightedly, and offering his hand in cordial greeting. "How are you, MissElsie? and you, Ned? Really you are the last people I expected to meethere, though the very ones I should prefer above all others as _compagnonsde voyage_. "

It was Philip Ross, Jr. 

Neither of those addressed had ever enjoyed his society, and they were toosincere and true to reciprocate his expressions of gratification at theunexpected meeting. They accepted his offered hand, made kind inquiries inregard to his health and that of the other members of the family, andasked if any of them were on board. 

"No, " he said, "it's merely a business trip that I take quite frequently. But ma and the girls are in Paris now, went last June and expect to stayfor another six months or longer. You two aren't here alone, eh?"

"Yes, " Edward said. 

"You don't say so!" cried Philip, elevating his eyebrows. "Who'd ever havebelieved your careful mother--not to speak of your grandfather--would evertrust you so far from home by yourselves!"

"Mr. Ross, " Edward said, reddening, "I shall reach my majority a fewmonths hence, and have been considered worthy of trust by both mother andgrandpa, for years past. "

"Mamma did not show the slightest hesitation in committing me to hiscare, " added Elsie in her sweet, gentle tones. 

"Glad to hear it! didn't mean any insinuation that I didn't consider youworthy of all trust, Ned; only that Mrs. Travilla and the old governorhave always been so awfully strict and particular. "

Elsie, to whom the slang term was new, looked at the speaker with aslightly puzzled expression; but Edward, who fully understood it, drewhimself up with offended dignity. 

"Permit me to remark, Mr. Ross, that so disrespectful an allusion to myhonored grandfather can never be other than extremely offensive to me, andto all his children and grandchildren. "

"Beg your pardon, Nod, and yours, Miss Elsie" (he would have liked todrop the Miss, but something in her manner prevented him), "I call my ownfather the governor--behind his back you know--and meant no offence inapplying the term to Mr. Dinsmore. "

His apology was accepted, and the talk turned upon the various objects ofinterest within sight as they passed through the harbor. 

When there was little more to see but sky and water, Elsie retired to herstate-room, where she stayed until evening. Then Edward came for her, andthey passed an hour very enjoyably in promenading the deck or sitting sideby side, looking out upon the moonlit waters. 

"I wish we hadn't happened upon Phil Ross, " Edward remarked in anundertone far from hilarious. "I fear he will, according to custom, makehimself very disagreeable to you. "

"I have been thinking it over, Ned, " she answered, "and have come to theconclusion that the better plan will be for you to take the firstfavorable opportunity to tell him of my engagement and what is the objectof our journey. "

"I presume such a course will be likely to save you a good deal ofannoyance, " Edward said; "and as we are old acquaintances, and heevidently full of a curiosity that will assuredly lead to his asking somequestions, I think it will be no difficult matter to give him theinformation without seeming to thrust it upon him. "

At that moment Philip came up and joined them, helping himself to a seaton Elsie's other side. He seemed to be, as of old, on the best of termswith himself and very graciously disposed toward Elsie. 

He, too, had been thinking of the, to him, fortunate chance (Elsie wouldhave called it providence) which had thrown them together where for somedays they were likely to see much of each other. He had heard a report ofher engagement, but refused to credit it. "She had always been fond of himand it wasn't likely she would throw herself away on somebody else. " Andnow he had come to the decision to offer her his hand, heart, and fortunewithout delay. He was rich enough, and why should he keep her in suspenseany longer?

He indulged in a few trivial commonplaces, then invited her to take a turnwith him on the deck. 

But she declined with thanks, "he must excuse her for she was greatlyfatigued and must retire at once. " And with a kindly "Good-night, " shewithdrew to her state-room, Edward again giving her the support of hisarm. 

Philip was literally struck dumb with surprise, and did not recover hisspeech until she was gone. 

Edward returned presently, and as he resumed his seat by Philip's side thelatter asked, "Is your sister out of health, Ned?"

"No; but we are just off a long and fatiguing journey; she was not at herbest state either when we left home, because of care and nursing of thesick children. And in addition to all that she is enduring much grief andanxiety. "

"May I ask on what account?"

"Yes; I have no objection to telling you the whole story, considering whatold acquaintances we are, and the life-long friendship of our mothers. Lester Leland, Elsie's betrothed, is lying very ill in Rome, and we aremaking all haste to join him there. "

"Her betrothed!" cried Philip, starting to his feet, "her betrothed didyou say? why--why, I've always expected to marry her myself; thought itwas an understood thing in both families, and----"

"I am sure I do not know upon what grounds you entertained such an idea, "returned Edward in a tone of mingled indignation and disgust. 

"Grounds, man! I'm sure it would seem the most natural thing in theworld--each the eldest child of intimate and dear friends--and I havenever made any secret of my preference for her----"

"Which amounts to nothing unless it had been reciprocated. "

"Reciprocated! I've always thought it was, and delayed speaking outplainly only because I considered myself safe in waiting to grow a littlericher. "

"In which you were egregiously mistaken. Now let me assure you once forall, that Elsie never has and never will care for any man in that way butLester Leland. "

At that Philip turned and walked rapidly away. "I'd rather have lost allI'm worth!" he muttered to himself. "Yes; every cent of it. But as to hernever caring for anybody else if that fellow was out o' the way, I don'tbelieve it. And he may die; may be dead now. Well, if he is I'll keep asharp look-out that nobody else gets ahead of me. "

His self-love and self-conceit had received a pretty deep wound, his eyeswere opened to the fact that Elsie avoided being alone with him, neverappearing on deck without her brother, and he did not trouble her muchduring the remainder of the voyage, did not make his intended offer. 

CHAPTER V. 

 "I feel Of this dull sickness at my heart afraid And in my eyes the death sparks flash and fade And something seems to steal Over my bosom like a frozen hand. " --_Willis_. 

Dr. Arthur Conly rode briskly up the avenue at Roselands, dismounted, throwing the bridle to a servant, and went up the steps into the veranda, whistling softly to himself. 

"You seem in good spirits, Art, " remarked Calhoun, who sat there with themorning paper in his hand. "I haven't heard you whistle before for--well Ishould say something like a fortnight. "

"I am in good spirits, Cal, the Ion children are out of danger, and unclehas just had a telegram from Ned announcing the safe arrival of theirparty in New York in good season to take the steamer. "

"I presume this tells the same story, though I can't think why it isn'tdirected to grandpa, or to me as the eldest son of the house, " Calhounsaid, handing an unopened telegram to his brother. 

Arthur tore it hastily open, glanced at the contents and paled to the verylips. 

"What is it?" cried Calhoun in alarm. 

"Mother!" said Arthur huskily, putting the paper into his brother'soutstretched hand. "She has been struck down with apoplexy. Cal, I musttake the first train for New York. Look at the paper, see when it leaves. Thank God that those children are out of danger! But I must see whom I canget to take charge of them and my other patients during my absence. "

Then calling to a servant he directed a fresh horse to be saddled andbrought to the door with all speed, and hurrying into the house, summonedhis old mammy and bade her pack a valise with such clothing as he wouldneed on a journey to the North which might occupy a week or more. 

"You are acting very promptly, " Calhoun said, following him in to give thedesired information in regard to the train. 

"Yes, there's not a minute to lose, Cal. "

Calhoun's face was full of grief and anxiety. "I think I should go, too, Art, if--if you think there's any probability of--finding her alive. "

"It's impossible to tell. But we can hardly both be spared from home. Itshould be kept from grandpa as long as possible, and if he saw us bothrushing off in the direction she has taken, he would know at once thatsomething very serious had happened her. "

"Yes, you are right, and for the first time I envy you your medicalknowledge and skill. She's with Virginia, the message is sent by her, "glancing again at the paper which he still held in his hand. "I'm glad ofthat--that she has at least one of her children with her, if----"

He paused and Arthur finished the sentence. "If she will be of any use orcomfort to her, you were about to say? Well, we can only hope that soterrible an emergency has developed some hitherto unsuspected excellenciesin Virginia's character. "

A horse came galloping up the avenue. Calhoun glanced from the window. 

"Another telegram!" he cried, and both brothers dashed out upon theveranda. 

This was directed to Calhoun, sent from Philadelphia by their uncle EdwardAllison. He and Adelaide would be with Mrs. Conly in two hours, telegraphat once in what condition they found her, and if practicable start withher immediately for her home. 

The brothers consulted together, and Arthur decided to go on with hispreparations, but delay setting out upon his journey until the coming ofthe promised message. 

It came in due time, and from it they learned that their mother wasalready on her way home. 

The sad tidings had now to be communicated to the other near relatives, but it was deemed best to keep them from the younger children and thefeeble old father until the day when she might be expected to arrive. 

As gently and tenderly as possible the old gentleman's son broke the newsto him. 

He was much overcome. "She will never get over it, I fear, " he sighed, thetears coursing down his furrowed cheeks. "One bereavement is apt to treadclosely upon the heels of another, and she will probably soon follow hersister. But oh if I only knew that she had been washed from her sins inthe precious blood of Christ, that she had accepted His invitation, 'Comeunto me, ' so that death would be but falling asleep in Him, safe in Hisarms, safe on His gentle breast--I think I could let her go almostwillingly, for my race is well nigh run, and it can hardly be long ere Itoo shall get my summons home. "

"Dear father, if such be the will of God, may you be spared to us for manyyears yet, " returned his son with emotion. "And Louise! We do not know herexact condition, but let us hope that God will in His great mercy give heryet more time--months or years--in which to prepare for eternity. We willcry earnestly for her, and in the name of Christ, to Him who hath said, 'Ihave no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, ' but bids them 'Turnyourselves and live ye. '"

"Yes; and whose promise is, 'If two of you shall agree on earth, astouching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of myFather which is in heaven!'"

Silence fell between them for a moment, then the old gentleman asked, "What arrangements have the boys made? She will hardly be able to drivehome in a carriage. "

"Oh no! they will meet her at the depôt with an ambulance, and I shall bethere with the carriage for Mr. Allison, Adelaide, and Virginia. "

"Virginia is coming too?"

"We do not know certainly, but expect to see her with the others. "

"I cannot say that I hope you will. I never saw a more useless person; shewill be only in the way; and--I cannot banish a suspicion that she hasbrought this attack upon her poor mother. I strongly suspect thatVirginia's match has turned out a very bad one, and that she has heapedreproaches upon her mother for the hand she had in bringing it about. "

"I hope not!" his son exclaimed with energy; "for if so it must surely bethe cause of life-long self-reproach to her. Will you go with us to thedepôt, father?"

"No, no, my son! let my first sight of my poor stricken child be where wewill not be the gazing stock of an idle, curious crowd. I shall meet herhere at my own door. "

The train steamed into the depôt, and Mrs. Allison, glancing from a windowof the parlor-car, saw her brother and nephews standing near the track. 

They saw her, too, and lifted their hats with a sad sort of smile. Allfelt that the invalid must be unable to sit up or her face also would havebeen in sight. 

In another moment the train had come to a stand-still, and the next thethree gentlemen were beside the couch on which Mrs. Conly lay. 

She looked up at her sons with eyes full of intelligence, made an effortto speak, but in vain; and the big tears rolled down her cheeks. 

They bent over her with hearts and eyes full to overflowing. 

"Mother, dear mother, we are glad you have come to us alive, " Calhoun saidin low, tremulous tones. 

"And we hope we shall soon have you much better, " added Arthur. 

"Yes, " said Adelaide, "she is already better than when we first saw her inNew York, but has not yet recovered her speech and can not help herselfat all. One side seems to be quite paralyzed. "

"We have an ambulance waiting, " said Calhoun. "As soon as the crowd is outof the way it shall be brought close to the platform of this car and wewill lift her into it. "

Greetings were exchanged while they waited. 

"Where is Virginia?" asked Mr. Dinsmore. 

"She preferred to remain behind, " replied Mrs. Allison in a low-tonedaside, "and as she would have been of no use whatever, we did not urge herto come. "

"It is just as well, " was Mr. Dinsmore's comment. 

Very tenderly and carefully the poor invalid was lifted and placed in theambulance by her sons and brothers. The former accompanied her in it, while the latter, with Mrs. Allison, entered the Roselands familycarriage, and drove thither considerably in advance of the more slowlymoving ambulance. 

"Has Virginia made a really good match?" Mr. Dinsmore asked, addressinghis sister Adelaide. 

"Good! it could hardly be worse!" she exclaimed. "Would you have believedit? we found them in a tenement-house, living most wretchedly. "

"Is it possible! He was not wealthy then? Or has he lost his means sincethe marriage?"

"As far as I can learn, " said Mr. Allison, "he has always lived by hiswits; he is a professional gambler now. "

"Dreadful! How does he treat his wife?"

"Very badly indeed, if we may credit her story. They live, as the sayingis, like cat and dog, actually coming to blows at times. They are bothbitterly disappointed, each having married the other merely for money;which neither had. "

Mr. Dinsmore looked greatly concerned. "Virginia was never a favorite ofmine, " he remarked, "but I do not like to think of her as suffering fromeither poverty or the abusive treatment of a bad husband. Can nothing bedone to better her condition?"

"I think not at present, " said Adelaide; "she has made her bed and willhave to lie in it. I don't believe the man would ever proceed to personalviolence if she did not exasperate him with taunts and reproaches; withslaps, scratches, and hair pulling also, he says. "

"O disgraceful!" exclaimed her uncle. "I have no pity for her if she isreally guilty of such conduct. "

"She told me herself that on one occasion she actually threw a cup ofcoffee in his face in return for his accusation that she and her motherhad inveigled him into the marriage by pretences to wealth they did notpossess. Poor Louise! I have no doubt her attack was brought on by thediscovery of the great mistake she and Virginia had made, and reproachesheaped on her for her share in making the match. "

"'Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap, '" sighed Mr. Dinsmore. "I presume Virginia was too proud to show herself here among relativeswhose approval of the match had not been asked, and acquaintances who hadheard of it as a splendid affair?"

"Your conjecture is entirely correct, " said Adelaide. "She gave vent toher feelings on the subject in her mother's presence, supposing, Ipresume, as I did, that not being able to speak or move, she was alsounable to hear or understand, but it was evident from the piteousexpression her countenance assumed and the tears coursing down her cheekythat she did both. "

"Poor Louise! she has a sad reaping--so far as that ungrateful, undutifuldaughter is concerned; but Isa, Calhoun, and Arthur are of quite anotherstamp. "

"Yes, indeed! she will surely find great comfort in them. I wish Isa wasnot so far away. But you have not told me how my dear old father is. Howhas he borne this shock?"

"It was a shock of course, especially to one so old and feeble; but I lefthim calmly staying himself upon his God. "

They arrived at Roselands some time before the ambulance. They found thewhole household, and also Mrs. Howard, her husband and sons, and Mrs. Travilla, gathered upon the veranda to receive them. 

Lora stood by her father's side and Elsie too was very near, both full ofloving care for him in this time of sore trial. 

And Adelaide's first thought, first embrace, were for him. They wept amoment in each other's arms. 

"Is she--is she alive?" he faltered. 

"Yes, father, and we hope may get up again. Be comforted for her and foryourself; because 'He doeth all things well, ' and 'We know that all thingswork together for good to them that love God. '"

"Yes, yes; and who can tell but this may be His appointed means forbringing her into the fold!"

There had been time for an exchange of greetings all around and a fewcomforting words to the younger Conlys, when the ambulance was seenentering the avenue. 

With beating hearts and tearful eyes they watched its slow progress. Lyinghelpless and speechless in the shadow of death, Louise Conly seemednearer and dearer than ever before to father, children, brothers andsisters. 

The ambulance stopped close to the veranda steps, and the same strong, loving arms that had placed her in it now lifted her anew and bore herinto the house, the others looking on in awed and tearful silence. 

She was carried to her own room, laid upon the bed, and one by one theystood for an instant at her side with a kiss of welcome. 

It was evident that she knew them all, though able to speak only withthose sad, wistful eyes that gazed with new yearning affection into thefaces of father and children. 

But presently Arthur, by virtue of his medical authority, banished allfrom the room except Lora, Elsie, and a faithful and attached old negresswho had lived all her days in the family and was a competent nurse. 

CHAPTER VI. 

 "Then come the wild weather--come sleet or come snow, We will stand by each other, however it blow; Oppression and sickness, and sorrow and pain, Shall be to our true love as links to the chain. " --_Longfellow_. (From the German. )

"Courage, sister dear!" whispered Edward Travilla, putting an arm tenderlyabout Elsie's waist as they found themselves at the very door of LesterLeland's studio. 

Her face had grown very pale and she was trembling with agitation. 

Still supporting her with his arm, Edward rapped gently upon the door, andat the same instant it was opened from within by the attending physician, who had just concluded his morning call upon his patient. 

He was an Italian of gentlemanly appearance and intelligent countenance. 

"Some friends of Signor Leland: from America?" he said in good English andwith a polite bow. 

"Yes. How is he?" Edward asked, stepping in and drawing his sister on withhim. 

"Sick, signor, very sick, but he will grow better now. I shall expect tosee him up in a few weeks, " the doctor answered with a significant glanceand smile as he turned, with a second and still lower bow, to the sweet, fair maiden. 

She did not see it, for her eyes were roving round the room--a disorderlyand comfortless place enough, but garnished with some gems of art; anunfinished picture was on the easel; there were others with their faces tothe wall; models, statues in various stages of completion, and theimplements of painter and sculptor were scattered here and there; ascreen, an old lounge, a few chairs, and a table littered with books, papers, and drawing materials, completed the furniture of the large, dreary apartment. 

An open door gave a glimpse into an inner room, from which came a slightsound as of a restless movement, a sigh or groan. 

Pointing to the chairs, the physician invited the strangers to be seated. 

Edward put his sister in one and took possession of another close at herside. 

"How soon can we see Mr. Leland?" he asked, putting his card into thedoctor's hand. 

"I will go and prepare Signor Leland for the interview, " the doctoranswered, and disappeared through the open doorway. 

"Good news for you, signor!" they heard him say in a quiet tone. 

"Ah! let me hear it, " sighed a well-known voice. "'As cold water to athirsty soul, so is good news from a far country. '"

"You are right, signor, it comes from far-off America. A friend--a youngsignor has arrived, and asks to see you. "

"Ah! his name?" exclaimed the sick man, with a tremor of gladness in hisfeeble tones. 

"Here is his card. "

"'Edward Travilla!'--ah what joy! Let me see him at once. 'Twill be like abreath of home air!"

Every word had reached the ears of the two in the studio. 

"Go! go!" cried Elsie, scarcely above her breath, and Edward rose and wentsoftly in. 

"Not much talk now, signores, " Elsie heard the doctor say. 

"No; we'll be prudent, " Edward said, grasping Lester's hand. 

"So good! so kind! more than I dared hope! But how is she? my darling?"Elsie heard in feeble, faltering, yet eager accents. 

"Well, very well, and longing to come here and nurse you back to health. "

"Ah, a glimpse of her sweet face I think would bring me back from theborders of the grave! But I could not expect or ask such a sacrifice. "

Elsie could wait no longer; she rose and glided with swift, almostnoiseless steps to the bedside. 

Edward made way for her. Lester looked up, caught sight of her, and aflash of exceeding joy lighted up his pale, emaciated features. 

"Elsie!"

"Lester!"

She dropped on her knees, laid her face on the pillow beside his, andtheir lips met in a long kiss. 

"O love, love! how sweet, how kind, how dear in you!" he murmured. 

"I have come to be your nurse, " she said, with a lovely blush and smile, "come to stay with you always while God spares our lives. "

Soon Edward went out and left them together. He had much to attend to, with Dinah and Ben for his helpers. Other and better apartments werespeedily rented, cleaned, and comfortably, even elegantly furnished. Theirmother had sent them off with full purses and carte blanche to draw uponher bankers for further supplies as they might be needed; and Edward knewit would be her desire to see Elsie and Lester surrounded by the luxuriesto which she had been accustomed from her birth. 

When night came the doctor pronounced his patient already wonderfullyimproved. 

"But the signora must leave him to me and the nurse to night, " he said;"she is fatigued with her long journey and must take her rest and sleep, or she too will be ill. "

So Elsie took possession of the pleasant room which had been prepared forher, and casting on the Lord all care for herself and dear ones, and fullof glad anticipations for the future, slept long and sweetly. 

It was early morning when she woke. That day and several succeeding oneswere spent at Lester's side in the gentle ministrations love teaches. There was little talk between them, for he was very weak, and love needsfew words; but he slept much of the time with her hand in his, and wakinggazed tenderly, joyously into the sweet face. 

Happiness proved the best of medicines, and every hour brought a slightincrease of strength, a change for the better in all the symptoms. 

Meanwhile Edward and the two servants were busy with the laying in ofneeded supplies and the preparation of the suite of apartments which wereto form the new home--Elsie giving a little oversight and direction. 

At length their labors were completed, and she was called in to take acritical survey and point out any deficiency, if such there were. 

She could find none. "My dear brother, how can I thank you enough?" shesaid, with a look of grateful affection. 

"You are satisfied?"

"Oh, entirely! I only wish mamma and the rest could see how comfortable, tasteful, really beautiful you have made these rooms!"

"I am very glad our work pleases you. And the doctor tells me that underthe combined influence of good nursing and unexpected happiness, Lester isgaining faster than he could have deemed possible. What is the time fixedupon for the ceremony which is to rob you of your patronymic, sistermine?"

"Add to it, you should say, " she corrected, with a charming blush. "Noonof day after to-morrow is the hour. Edward, do you know that our gooddoctor is a Waldensian?"

"No, I did not, and am pleased to learn it; though I was satisfied that hewas no Papist. "

"Yes, he is one of that long-persecuted noble race, and will take you tosee his pastor on our behalf. I have so greatly admired and loved theWaldenses that I really feel that to be married by one of their pastorswill be some small compensation for--for being so far from homeand--mamma. O Edward, if she were but here!"

Her tears were falling fast. He put his arm about her waist, her headdropped upon his shoulder and he smoothed her hair with caressing hand. 

"It is hard for you, " he said tenderly; "so different from what you andall of us have looked forward to. But you have been very brave, dear; andwhat a blessing that your coming is working such a cure for Lester!"

"Yes, oh yes! God is very good to me, His blessings are unnumbered!"

"It seems a sad sort of bridal for you, " he said, "but I shall telegraphthe hour to mamma immediately, and they will all be thinking of andpraying for you. "

"Oh, that is a comfort I had not thought of!" she exclaimed, with gladtears shining in her eyes. "What a blessing you are to me, brother dear!"

Lester was not able to leave his bed or likely to be for weeks, but thatshe might devote herself the more entirely to him Elsie had consented tobe married at once. 

She laid aside her mourning for the occasion, and Dinah helped her toarray herself for her bridal in a very beautiful evening dress of somewhite material which had been worn but once before. 

"Pity dars no time to get a new dress, Miss Elsie, " remarked thehandmaiden half regretfully. "Doe sho' nuff you couldn't look no sweeterand beautifuller dan you does in dis. "

"I prefer this, Dinah, because they all--even dear, dear papa--have seenme in it, " Elsie said, hastily wiping away a tear; "and I remember he saidit became me well. Oh, I can see his proud, fond smile as he said it, andalmost feel the touch of his lips; for he bent down and kissed me sotenderly. "

"Miss Elsie, I jes b'lieves he's a lookin' at you now dis bressed minute, and ef de res' of dose dat lubs you is far away he'll be sho to stan'close side o' you when de ministah's a saying de words dat'll make youMassa Leland's wife. "

"Ah, Dinah, what a sweet thought! and who shall say it may not be so!"

"Dar's Massa Edward!" exclaimed Dinah, as a quick, manly step was heard, followed by a light rap upon the door. 

She hastened to open it "We's ready, Marse Ed'ard. "

He did not seem to hear or heed her; his eyes were fastened upon hisbeautiful sister, more beautiful at this moment, he thought, than everbefore. 

"Elsie!" he cried. "Oh that mamma could see you! she herself could hardlyhave been a lovelier bride! yet these are wanted to complete your attire, "opening a box he had brought, and taking therefrom a veil of exquisitetexture and design and a wreath of orange blossoms. 

"How kind and thoughtful, Edward!" she said, thanking him with a sweetthough tearful smile; "but are they suitable for such a bridal as this?"

"Surely, " he said. "Come, Dinah, and help me to arrange them. "

Their labors finished, he stepped back a little to note the effect. 

"O darling sister, " he exclaimed, "never, I am sure, was there a lovelierbride! I wish the whole world could see you!"

"Our own little world at Ion is all I should ask for, " she responded intremulous tones. 

"Yes, it must be very hard for you, " he said; "especially not to havemamma here, you who have always clung to her so closely. Such a differentwedding as it is from hers! But it's very romantic you know, " he addedjocosely, trying to raise her drooping spirits. 

"Ah, I am forgetting a piece of news I have to tell I met an Americangentleman and his daughter, the other day, fell into conversation withhim, and learned that we have several common acquaintances I think we weremutually pleased, and I have asked him and his daughter in to the wedding;thinking it would not be unpleasant to you, and we should thus have twomore witnesses. "

"Perhaps it is best we should, " she returned, in her sweet, gentle way, yet looking somewhat disturbed. 

"I'm afraid I ought to have consulted you first, " he said. "I'm sorry, butit is too late now His name is Love; his daughter--an extremely prettygirl by the way--he calls Zoe. "

Ben now came to the door to say that all was in readiness--the minister, the doctor, and the other gentleman and a lady had arrived. 

Edward gave his arm to his sister and led her into the room, to whichLester had been carried a few moments before, and where he lay on aluxurious couch, propped up with pillows into a half-sitting posture. 

A touch of color came into his pale cheeks, and his eyes shone with loveand joy as they rested upon his lovely bride, as Edward led her to theside of his couch. 

Dinah and Ben followed, taking their places near the door and watching theproceedings with interest and sympathy. 

The minister stood up, the doctor, the stranger guests, the nurse also, and the ceremony began. 

Elsie's eyes were full of tears, but her sweet low tones were distinct andclear as she took the marriage vows. 

So were Lester's; his voice seemed stronger than it had been for weeks, and when he took the small white-gloved hand in his, the grasp was firm aswell as tender. 

"One kiss, my love, my wife!" he pleaded when the ceremony was ended. 

A soft blush suffused the fair face and neck, but the request wasgranted; she bent over him and for an instant their lips met. 

Then Edward embraced her with brotherly affection and good wishes. Hegrasped Lester's hand in cordial greeting, then turned and introduced hisnew-made friends to the bride and groom. 

A table loaded with delicacies stood in an adjoining room, and thither thebrother and sister and their guests now repaired, while for a short seasonthe invalid was left to quietness and repose that he might recover fromthe unwonted excitement and fatigue. 

CHAPTER VII. 

 "Therein he them fall fair did entertain, Not with such forged shows as fitter been For courting fools, that courtesies would faine, But with entire affection plain. " --_Spenser's "Fairy Queen. "_

One bright morning in November the Ion family were gathered about thebreakfast-table. Rosie and Walter were there for the first time sincetheir severe illness, a trifle pale and thin still, but nearly in usualhealth, and very glad to be permitted to take their old places at thetable. 

Mrs. Dinsmore had returned from her sojourn at the Laurels, the home ofher daughter Rose; the grandchildren there, whom she had been nursing, having also recovered their health; and so the places of the eldest sonand daughter of the house were the only vacant ones. 

Both Elsie and Edward were sorely missed, especially by the mother andViolet. 

"It seems time we had letters again from our absentees, papa, " Mrs. Travilla remarked as she poured the coffee. "We have had none since thetelegram giving the hour for the wedding. "

"No, but perhaps we may hear this morning--the mail has not come yet. "

"Yes, grandpa; here comes Solon with it, " said Harold, glancing from thewindow. 

In a few moments the man came in bringing the mail-bag, which he handed toMr. Dinsmore. 

All looked on with interest, the younger ones in eager expectation, whiletheir grandfather opened it and examined the contents. 

"Yes, daughter, there is a letter from each of them, both directed toyou, " he said, glancing over the addresses on several letters which he nowheld in his hand. "Here, Tom, " to the servant in waiting, "take these toyour mistress. Don't read them to the neglecting of your breakfast, " headded with a smile, again addressing Mrs. Travilla. 

"No, sir; they will keep, " she answered, returning the smile; "and youshall all share the pleasure of their perusal with me after prayers. Doubtless they give the particulars we all want so much to learn. "

They all gathered round her at the appointed time. She held the lettersopen in her hand, having already given them a cursory examination lestthere should be some little confidence intended for none but "mother's"eye. 

"Papa, " she said, looking up half tearfully, half smilingly at him as hestood at her side, "the deed is indeed done, and another claims myfirst-born darling as his own. "

"You have not lost her, Elsie dearest, but have gained a son; and I trustwe shall have them both with us ere long, " he responded, bending down totouch his lips to the brow still as smooth and fair as in the days of hergirlhood. 

"Poor dear Elsie! how she must have missed and longed for you, dearestmamma!" Violet sighed, kneeling close to her mother's chair and puttingher arms around her. 

"What is it? all about Elsie's wedding?" asked Herbert. "Please let ushear it, mamma. The telegram told nothing but the hour when it was to be, and I was so surprised, for I never understood that that was what she wentaway for. "

"Nor I, " said Harold; "though I suppose it was very stupid in us not tounderstand. "

"Who did get married with my sister Elsie, mamma?" asked little Walter. 

"Mr. Leland, my son. "

"But I thought he was most dead, " remarked Rosie in surprise. 

"He has been very ill, " her mother said, "but is improving fast, thoughnot yet able to sit up. "

Rosie, opening her eyes wide in astonishment, was beginning anotherquestion when Harold stopped her. 

"Wait, Rosie, don't you see mamma is going to read the letters? They willtell us all about it, I presume. "

"I shall read Edward's first, it gives a very minute account of what theyhave done since he wrote us last, just after their arrival in Rome, " themother said. "He is a good boy to take the trouble to tell us everythingin detail; is he not, papa?"

"Yes, " Mr. Dinsmore assented, seating himself by her side and taking Rosieupon one knee, Walter on the other; "and so good a mother richly deservesgood, thoughtful sons and daughters, ever ready to do all in their powerto promote her happiness, or afford her pleasure. Does she not, children?"

"Yes, grandpa, indeed she does!" they replied in chorus. 

Her sweet soft eyes glistened with happy tears as she sent a loving glanceround the little circle; then all becoming perfectly quiet and attentive, she began to read. 

Edward's first item of news was that the marriage had just taken place;the next that Lester's health was steadily improving. Then came adescription of the rooms they were occupying; both as they were when firstseen by Elsie and himself and as they had become under his renovating andimproving hands. 

After that he drew a vivid picture of Elsie's appearance in her bridalrobes, told who were present at the ceremony, who performed it, how theseveral actors acquitted themselves, and what refreshments were servedafter it was over. 

He said he thought happiness was working a rapid cure with Lester, andthat from all he could see and hear, his success as both painter andsculptor was already assured. 

Elsie's themes were the same, but she had much to say of Edward's kindthoughtfulness, his energy and helpfulness; "the best and kindest ofbrothers, " she called him, and as she read the words the mother's eyesshone with love and pride in her eldest son. 

But her voice trembled, and the tears had to be wiped away once and againwhen she came to that part of the letter in which Elsie told of herfeelings as she robed herself for her bridal with none to assist butDinah; how sad was her heart, dearly as she loved Lester, and how full oflonging for home and mother and all the dear ones so far away; then of thecomfort she found in the idea that possibly the dear departed father mightbe near her in spirit. 

"Was it wrong, mamma, " she asked, "to think he might perhaps be allowed tobe a ministering spirit to me in my loneliness? and to find pleasure inthe thought?"

"Mamma, what do you think about it?" asked Herbert. 

"I do not know that we have any warrant for the idea in the Scriptures, "she answered; "it seems to be one of the things that is not revealed; yetI see no harm in taking comfort in the thought that it may be so. My poorlonely darling! I am glad she had that consolation. Ah, papa, what adifferent wedding from mine!"

"Yes, " he said, "and from what we thought hers would be. But I trust shewill never see cause to regret the step she has taken. Lester is worthsaving even at the sacrifice she has made. "

His daughter looked at him with glistening eyes. "Thank you, papa, that isa good thought, and consoles me greatly for both our darling andourselves. "

She went on with the reading of the letter; there were but a few moresentences; then, while the others discussed its contents, Violet stolequietly from the room, unobserved as she thought. But in that she wasmistaken. Her mother's eyes followed her with a look of love and sympathy. 

"Dear child!" she said in a low aside to her father, "she misses Elsiesorely; I sometimes think almost more than I do, they were so inseparableand so strongly attached. "

Vi's heart was very full, for Elsie's marriage, though far, far from beingso great a sorrow as the death of their father, seemed in some respectseven more the breaking up of a life that had been very sweet. 

She sought the studio she and Elsie had shared together (how lonely anddeserted it seemed!) and there gave vent to her feelings in a burst oftears. 

"O Elsie, darling! we were so happy together! such dear friends! withnever a disagreement, hardly a thought unshared! And now I am alone! allalone!"

She had unconsciously spoken aloud. A soft sweet voice echoed the lastword. 

"Alone! ah, my darling, no! not while your mother lives. You and I mustcling the closer together, Vi dearest, " the voice went on, while twoloving arms enfolded her and a gentle kiss was imprinted upon cheek andbrow. 

"Dearest mamma!" cried Violet, returning the caress, "forgive me that Ishould indulge in such grief while you are left me--you and your dearlove, the greatest of earthly treasures. "

"Yes, dear child, your grief is very natural. These changes, though notunmixed calamities, are one of the hard conditions of life in this lowerworld, dear daughter; but we must not let them mar our peace andhappiness; let us rejoice over the blessings that are left, rather thanweep for those that are gone. "

"I will, mamma, " Violet said, wiping away her tears. "Ah, how much I stillhave to rejoice in and be thankful for!"

"Yes, dear, we both have! and not the least the love of Him who has said, 'Lo, _I_ am with you _alway_. ' Oh the joy, the bliss of knowing that_nothing_ can ever part us from _Him_! And then to know, too, that someday we shall all be together in His immediate presence, beholding His faceand bearing His image!"

Neither spoke again for some moments, then the mother said, "Vi, dearest, there is nothing more conducive to cheerfulness at such a time as thisthan being fully employed. So I ask you to take charge of Rosie and Walterfor a few hours. They are not yet well enough for tasks or for out doorsports, but need to be amused. And your grandpa and grandma want me todrive with them to the Laurels and Roselands. "

"Yes, do go, mamma, and try to enjoy yourself. You have seen so little ofAunt Adelaide since she came, or of Aunt Rosie, since the sickness beganwith her children and ours. Thank you for your trust, I shall do my best, "Violet said with cheerful alacrity. "Ah, the recovery of the darlings isone of the many mercies we have to be thankful for!"

"Yes, Vi, and my heart is full of joy and gratitude to the GreatPhysician. "

At Roselands Mrs. Conly still lay helpless on her couch, her conditionhaving changed very slightly for the better; she could now at times, withgreat effort, speak a word or two, but friends and physicians had scarcelya hope of any further improvement; she might live on thus for years, oranother stroke might at any moment bring the end. 

Cut off from all other means of communicating her thoughts and feelings, she could show them only by the expression of her countenance, which wassullen, fierce, despairing, piteous by turns. 

She had the best of care and nursing from her sisters, her sons, and herold mammy, assisted occasionally by other friends and relatives, and couldnot fail to read in their faces and the tones of their voices tender pityand sympathy for her in her sore affliction. 

They could not tell whether she understood all that was said to her, buthoping that she did, spoke often to her of the loving Saviour and tried tolead her to Him. 

Hitherto the Ion friends had not been able to be with her a great deal, but it had not been necessary, as Adelaide was still at Roselands. 

She, however, expected soon to return to her own home, and there wouldthen be greater need of their services; therefore there was double reasonfor thankfulness for the restoration to health of the little ones at Ionand the Laurels; releasing, as it did, both Mrs. Dinsmore and Mrs. Travilla from the cares and labors which had occupied them for some weekspast. 

The latter gave expression to that thought while driving to the Laurelswith her father and his wife, adding, "I can now hold myself in readinessto take Aunt Adelaide's place at any moment. "

"Not with my consent, " said Mr. Dinsmore emphatically; "if you consideryourself at all under my authority you will take a week at least of entirerest and relaxation. "

She looked at him with her own sweet smile, full of filial love andreverence, and putting her hand in his, said, "Yes, my dear father, thatis still one of my great happinesses, as it has been almost ever since Ican remember. Ah, it is often very restful to me just to resign myself toyour wise, loving guidance and control!"

His fingers closed over the small, daintily gloved hand, holding it in awarm and tender clasp. 

"Then do not forget that you are not to undertake anything that can taxyour strength, without my knowledge and permission. Nor must you, Rose, "he added with playful authority, turning an affectionate, smiling glanceupon her; "you too are worn out and must have rest. "

"Well, my dear, " she said laughingly, "I make no rash promises. You know Inever have equalled Elsie in submissiveness. "

"No; and yet you have usually shown yourself amenable to authority. "

"Perhaps because it has so seldom been exerted, " she saucily returned. "Mydear, we have not yet had our first quarrel. "

"And have lived together for thirty odd years. I think it would hardly beworth while to begin after so long a delay. "

"Nor do I, " she said, "therefore shall probably yield to your wishes inthis matter--or commands, call them what you will; especially as they arein full accord with my own inclinations. "

"Elsie, " he said, turning to his daughter again, "I have taken the libertyof inviting some guests to Ion this morning. "

"Liberty, papa!" she exclaimed. "It would be impossible for you to takeliberties with me or mine; I consider your rights and authority in anyhouse of mine fully equal, if not superior to my own. If the mistress ofthe mansion be subject to your control, " she added, with a bright look upinto his face, and much of the old time archness in her smile, "surely allelse must be. "

"Thank you, daughter; then I have not taken a liberty, but I have invitedthe guests all the same. You do not ask how it happened or who they are, but I proceed to explain. 

"In glancing over the morning paper, while you and Rose were attiringyourselves for the drive, I saw among the items of news that Donald Keithis in our city. So I dispatched Solon with a carriage and a hastilywritten note, asking Donald to come out to see us, bringing with him anyfriend or friends he might choose. "

"I am glad you did, papa; they shall have a warm welcome. But will it notmake it necessary for us to return home earlier than we intended?"

"No, not at all, it is not likely they will arrive until near our dinnerhour--if they come at all to-day, and if they should be there earlier, Violet is quite capable of entertaining them. "

"Yes, " said Mrs. Dinsmore, "I know of no one more competent to minister tothe enjoyment of either grown people or children. As regards talent, sweetness of disposition, and utter unselfishness combined, our Vi is onein a thousand. "

"Thank you, mamma, for saying it, " Elsie said, her eyes shining withpleasure. "She seems all that to me; but I thought it might be thatmother love magnified her good qualities and made me blind to herimperfections. "

Violet, in the nursery at home, was showing herself worthy of theseencomiums by her efforts to amuse the little ones and keep them frommissing the dear mother who had been so constantly with them of late. Sheplayed quiet little games with them, told them beautiful stories, showedthem pictures and drew others for them, dressed dolls for Rosie and cutpaper horses for Walter. 

Several hours were passed thus, then seeing them begin to look weary--forthey were still weak from their recent illness--she coaxed them to liedown while she sang them to sleep. 

The closed eyes and soft breathing telling that they slept, she rose andbent over them a moment, gazing tenderly into each little face, thendrawing out her watch and turning to the old nurse, whispered, "It is timefor me to dress for dinner, mammy. I'll go now, but if they wake and wantme let me know at once. "

Her toilet was scarcely completed when the sound of wheels caught herears. 

"There! mamma has come! Dear, dear mamma!" she said half aloud, andpresently hastened from the room to meet and welcome her. 

But instead a servant was coming leisurely up the broad stairway. 

"Where is mamma, Prilla?" the young girl asked in a slightly disappointedtone. 

"Miss Elsie not come yet, Miss Wilet. De gentlemen is in de drawin'-room, "Prilla answered, handing two visiting-cards to her young mistress. 

"'Donald Keith, U. S. A. , '" read Violet with a brightening countenance, asshe glanced at the first. 

On the other was inscribed, "L. Raymond, U. S. N. "

Violet hastening to the drawing-room, met her cousin with outstretchedhand and cordial greeting. 

"I am so glad you have come, Cousin Donald! We have all wanted you to seeIon. "

"Thank you, Cousin Violet; you can't have wished it more than I, I amsure, " he said, with a look of delight. "Allow me to introduce my friend, Captain Raymond, of the navy. You see I took your grandfather at his wordand brought a friend with me. "

Violet had already given her hand to her cousin's friend--as such he musthave no doubtful welcome--but at Donald's concluding sentence she turnedto him again with a look of surprised inquiry, which he was about toanswer, when the door opened and Mr. Dinsmore, his wife and daughter camein. 

There were fresh greetings and introductions, Mr. Dinsmore saying, as heshook hands with the guests, "So you received my hasty note, Donald, andaccepted for yourself and friend? That was right. You are both mostwelcome, and we hope will find Ion pleasant enough to be willing toprolong your stay and to desire to visit us again. "

"Thank you, I was certain of that before I came, " said Donald. 

"And I surely am now that I am here, " remarked the captain gallantly, andwith an admiring glance from Mrs. Dinsmore's still fresh, bright, andcomely face to the more beautiful ones of Elsie and her daughter. 

Elsie's beauty had not faded, she was still young and fair in appearance, with the same sweetly pure and innocent expression which old Mrs. Dinsmorehad been wont to stigmatize as "that babyish look. " And Violet's face waspeerless in its fresh young beauty. 

As for the captain himself, he was a man of commanding presence, noblecountenance, and magnificent physique, with fine dark eyes and anabundance of dark brown curling hair and beard; evidently Donald's seniorby some years, yet not looking much, if at all, over thirty. 

The two older ladies presently left the room to reappear shortly in dinnerdress. 

While they were gone Mr. Dinsmore engaged the captain in conversation, and Donald and Violet talked together in a low aside. 

"Your sister is well, I hope?" he remarked interrogatively. 

"Elsie? We had letters from her and Edward this morning. They were well atthe time of writing. "

"They are not at home then?" he said in a tone of surprise anddisappointment. 

"Oh, no! had you not heard?" and Violet's eyes filled. "It is veryfoolish, I'm afraid, " she went on in half tremulous tones, in answer tohis inquiring look, "but I can't help feeling that Lester Leland hasrobbed me of my sister. "

"She is married? and has gone to a home of her own?"

Violet answered by telling the story as succinctly as possible. 

"He was in Italy pursuing his art studies, " she said. "They had becomeengaged shortly before he went, and a few weeks ago we heard he was veryill with typhoid fever. Elsie at once said she must go to him, she couldnot let him die for lack of good nursing. So grandpa and mamma consentedto her going with Edward and our faithful old Ben--papa's foster-brotherand body-servant, who travelled for years with him in Europe--forprotectors. 

"Of course she took a maid too, and Aunt Louise offered to go with them, but was taken sick in New York, so had to be left behind. 

"They found Lester very but not hopelessly ill, and the joy of seeing themhad an excellent effect. So they were married, Cousin Donald. Just thinkhow sad for poor Elsie! away from mamma and all of us except Edward!"

"It was sad for her, I am sure!" he said with warm sympathy, "and very, very noble and unselfish in her to leave all for him. "

"Yes; and yet not more, I think, than any right-minded woman would do forthe man she loved well enough to marry. "

Harold and Herbert came in at that moment full of boyish enthusiasm anddelight over the arrival of "Cousin Donald, " whom they liked and admiredextremely; in especial for his fine figure, soldierly bearing, andpleasant, kindly manner. 

They had hardly done shaking hands with him and Captain Raymond, to whomtheir grandfather introduced them with a look of paternal pride, whentheir mother and "Grandma Rose" returned to the drawing-room, and dinnerwas announced. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

 "A man's heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps. "--_Prov. _ 16:9. 

The boys were greatly disappointed on learning from the talk at thedinner-table that Cousin Donald's furlough was so short that he could givebut two days to his Ion friends. 

There were many expressions of regret. Then Mr. Dinsmore said, "If youmust leave us so soon we must make good use of our time, by taking you atonce to see relatives, friends, and places of interest in theneighborhood. If you and the captain are not too weary to enjoy a ride ordrive, we will go to Roselands for a call this afternoon, then on to theOaks to take tea with my son Horace and his family. "

"You can assure us of a welcome at both places?" Donald said inquiringlyand with a slight smile. 

"You need not have the slightest fear on that score, " was the quick, earnest rejoinder. 

"I for one, " remarked the captain, "am not in the least fatigued, and ifthe ladies are to be of the party, accept with pleasure and thanks. "

"I also, " said Donald, with a look at Violet which seemed to express ahope that she was not intending to remain behind. 

Mrs. Dinsmore and Mrs. Travilla excused themselves from going on the pleaof fatigue from recent nursing of the sick and the long drive of themorning, Elsie adding that her little convalescents ought hardly to bedeprived of mamma all day. 

"Then we will take Vi, " said Mr. Dinsmore, looking affectionately at her;"she has shut herself up with those same convalescents all the morning andneeds air and exercise. "

"Yes, papa, " her mother said, "and I know she would enjoy a gallop on herfavorite pony. Cousin, " turning to Donald, "we have both riding andcarriage horses at your and the captain's service; please do not hesitateto express your preference. "

They thanked her, and after a little more discussion it was arranged thatthe whole party, including Harold and Herbert, should ride. 

The horses were ordered at once and they set out very shortly afterleaving the table. Mr. Dinsmore and the captain headed the cavalcade, Donald and Violet came next, riding side by side, and the two lads broughtup the rear. 

Donald was well satisfied with the arrangement, and he and Vi found agood deal of enjoyment in recalling the scenes, doings, and happenings ofthe past summer; particularly of the weeks spent together on the NewJersey coast. 

Also Vi rehearsed to him Edward's account of Elsie's wedding and hisdescription of the suite of apartments he had had fitted up for their use. Edward expected to spend the winter there, she said. 

It was all very interesting to Donald. He thought Lester Leland a man tobe envied, yet perhaps less so than he who should secure for his own thefair, sweet maiden riding by his side. 

They passed a pleasant hour at Roselands, seeing all the family except theinvalid, then rode on to the Oaks, where they found a warm welcome andmost delightful and hospitable entertainment. 

Then the return to Ion by moonlight was very enjoyable. 

It was still early when they arrived; the two older ladies awaited them inthe parlor, and some time was spent in pleasant converse before retiringfor the night. 

"I have not yet had the pleasure of seeing my little favorites, Rosie andWalter, Cousin Elsie, " remarked Donald. 

"No, " she said, "and they are very eager for an interview with you. Theyare in bed now, but I hope they will be well enough to join us atbreakfast to-morrow. "

"They have been quite sick?"

"Yes, were dangerously ill for a time, and though about again, still needconstant care lest they should take cold. "

The guests given adjoining rooms, opened the door of communication betweenand had a little private chat together before seeking their pillows. 

"These relatives of yours, Keith, are extremely nice people, " remarked thecaptain. 

"Of course they are, " returned Donald, "relatives to be proud of. "

"I never saw a more beautiful woman than Mrs. Travilla, " pursued thecaptain. "I think I may say never one so beautiful; and the most charmingpart of it is beauty that will last; beauty of heart and intellect. Canshe be Miss Violet's own mother? There is a resemblance, though theirstyles of beauty are quite different, but there does not seem to besufficient difference in age. "

"She _is_ own mother, though, and not only to Violet, but to two olderones--a son and daughter. "

The captain expressed great surprise. "But youthful looks must be a familycharacteristic, " he added meditatively. "Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore lookextremely young to be the grandparents of the family. "

Donald explained that Mr. Dinsmore was really only eighteen years olderthan his daughter, and Rose, a second wife, but half as many. 

"And what think you of Violet's beauty?" he asked. 

"Absolutely faultless! She has an angelic face! If I were a young fellowlike you, Keith, I'd certainly not look elsewhere while I could see a rayof hope in that direction. But there's the relationship in the way. "

"It's too distant to stand in the way, " returned Donald a trifle shortly, "I look upon her prospective wealth as a far greater obstacle, having nofancy for playing the rôle of fortune-hunter, or laying myself open to thesuspicion of being such. "

"Then you've no intention of trying for her?"

"I haven't said so, have I? Well, good-night, it's getting late. "

"What do you think of Captain Raymond?" Rose was asking her husband. "Youhave had by far the best opportunity to cultivate his acquaintance. "

"He impresses me very favorably as both a man and a Christian, " was theemphatic reply. 

"Ah! I am glad Donald has so nice a friend, " was her pleased comment. 

"Yes, there seems a warm friendship existing between them, though thecaptain must be the older by several years. Married too, for he mentionedhis children incidentally. "

On coming down to the parlor the next morning the guests found Mr. Dinsmore there fondling his little grandchildren--Rosie on one knee, Walter on the other. 

Cousin Donald's entrance was hailed with delight, Walter presentlytransferred to his knee. 

Then the captain coaxed Rosie to his, saying, "Your dark eyes and hairremind me of my little Lulu's. "

"Have you a little girl of your own, sir?" Rosie asked with a look ofinterest. 

"Yes, my dear, two of them. Lulu is a year or two younger than I take youto be, and Gracie is only seven. "

"Have you any boys?" inquired Walter. 

"Yes, my little man; I have one. We call him Max. He is two years olderthan Lulu. "

"About as old as I am?" said Rosie half inquiringly. 

"Yes; if you are eleven, as I suppose. "

"Yes, sir, I'm eleven and Walter's five. "

"If they're good children we'd like 'em to come here and play with us, "remarked Walter. 

"I am afraid they are not always good, " the captain said with a smile anda half sigh. "I am not with them enough to give them the teaching andtraining that doubtless you enjoy. "

"But why doesn't their mamma do it? Our mamma teaches us;" and the child'seyes turned lovingly upon her as at that moment she entered the room. 

The usual morning greetings were exchanged, and Walter's question remainedunanswered. 

The gentlemen were out nearly all day, riding or driving; the ladies withthem a part of the time. The evening was enlivened with music andconversation, and all retired to rest at a seasonable hour; the two guestsexpecting to take leave of their hospitable entertainers the next morning. 

Darkness and silence reigned for some hours, then the shining of a brightlight into Donald's eyes awoke him. 

He sprang from his bed, rushed to the window, saw that a cottage not faraway, which he had noticed in riding by, was in flames. The next moment hehad snatched up a few articles of clothing and was at the captain's sideshaking him vigorously. 

"Up, Raymond! up, man! There's a fire and we'll be needed to help put itout. "

"What is it? breakers ahead, do you say?'" muttered the captain, only halfawake. 

"Fire! fire!" repeated Keith. 

"Fire? where?" and the captain sprang up, now wide awake, and beganhurrying on his clothes. 

"That cottage down the road. "

"That's bad indeed; but not quite so bad as a vessel foundering or burningat sea. Anybody else in the house awake?"

"I don't know. Yes, there! I hear steps and voices. "

They hurried into the hall and down the stairs. Mr. Dinsmore was in thelower hall giving directions to the men-servants, who were all collectedthere. 

"Haste! Solon, Tom, Dick--all of you!" he was saying, "gather up all thelarge buckets about the house, ropes too and ladders, and follow me asfast as you can. Ah, captain! and Donald too! You have seen the fire, Isuppose? Will you come with me? There'll be work enough for us all nodoubt. We've no engine in this neighborhood. "

"Certainly, sir!"

"That's the port we are bound for. " And each catching up a bucket they allthree set off at full speed in the direction of the burning house, severalof the negroes following close at their heels. 

They found a crowd already gathered there--men and women, black and white. Some were carrying out furniture from the lower rooms, some bringingwater in buckets from a spring near by, others contenting themselves withlooking on and giving orders which nobody obeyed. 

"I see the house will have to go, " Mr. Dinsmore said. "Are the family allout of it?"

"All but an old colored woman, " some one replied, "old Aunt Betsy. Nobodythought of her in time, and now it's too late, for the stairs are burnedaway. Hark!" as a crash was heard, "there's the last of them. "

"What! will you leave a helpless old woman to be burnt alive?" criedCaptain Raymond. "Where is she?"

"Yonder!" cried several voices; "see, she's at the window! and she'sscreaming for help!" as a wild shriek rent the air, a black face full ofterror and despair showing itself at an upper window, where the fire'slurid light fell full upon it. 

"Oh, ain't dar nobody to help ole Aunt Betsy?" she screamed, stretchingout her wrinkled arms and toil-worn hands in passionate entreaty; "willyou ebery one ob you leave de po' ole woman to burn up in dis awful fiah?Isn't ye got no pity in yo' souls! Oh, somebody come an' help de po' olewoman to git down 'fore she burn all up!"

"A rope!" shouted the captain, "quick! quick! a rope!"

"Heah, massa cap'n!" answered Solon close it hand. "Ise brung it jus' intime. "

"What can you do with a rope, Raymond?" asked Donald. 

"Make an effort to save her with the help of that lightning-rod. "

"You risk your own life, and it is worth far more than hers, " Donald saidentreatingly. 

"Stay a moment, captain, " said Mr. Dinsmore, "they are bringing a ladder. "

"But there's no time to lose; see! the flames are already bursting outfrom the next window. "

"Yes, but here it is, " as the negroes halted with it close beside them. "It is to be used to reach that window, boys, " he said, turning to themand pointing upward. "Set it up there. "

"Can't do it, sah! 'Mos' as much as a man's life is wuth to go so near defire. "

"Then give it to me!" cried the captain, taking hold of it, Mr. Dinsmoreand Donald giving their assistance. 

It was the work of a moment to set it up against the wall; in another thecaptain was ascending it, while the other two held it firmly in place. 

He gained the window and sprang in. 

"Bress you, massa! bress you!" exclaimed the old negress, "you's gwine tosave me I knows. "

"Get out here on to the ladder and climb down as fast as you can, " he saidhurriedly, taking hold of her arm to help her. 

But she drew back shuddering. "I can't, massa! I'se ole and stiff. I can'tno how 'tall. "

There was not a moment to lose. The captain stepped back on to the topround of the ladder, took her in his arms, and began as rapid a descent aswas possible so burdened. 

The ladder shook beneath their weight, for both were heavy, and Aunt Betsystruggled in his grasp, screaming with fright; then a tongue of flameshooting out from below caught her cotton gown, and in her frantic terrorshe gave a sudden spring that threw her preserver and herself to theground. 

Mr. Dinsmore and Donald seized the captain and dragged him out of harm'sWay, other hands doing a like service for the woman. 

She was shrieking and groaning, but her rescuer neither spoke nor moved. 

They took him up, carried him out of the crowd, and laid him gently downupon a sofa; one of the articles of furniture saved from the fire. 

"Poor fellow!" sighed Donald with emotion. "I'm afraid he has paid dearfor his kindness of heart!"

"Solon, " said Mr. Dinsmore, "mount the fastest horse here and ride toRoselands for Dr. Arthur. Tell him we don't know how seriously thisgentleman is hurt. Hurry! make all possible haste!"

Solon was turning to obey, but stopped, exclaiming, "Why, sho' anuff, dar's de doctah hisself just lightin' off his hoss ober yondah!"

"Then run and bring him here. "

Arthur obeyed the summons with all speed. The alarm of the fire hadreached Roselands, and he had hastened to the spot to give aid inextinguishing it, or to any who might be injured. 

He found the captain showing signs of life; he moved his head, then openedhis eyes. 

"Where are you hurt, sir?" asked the doctor. 

"Not very seriously anywhere, I trust, " replied the captain, trying torise. "Ah!" as he fell back again, "both back and ankle seem to have had awrench. But, friends, are you not needed over there at the fire? Myinjuries can wait. "

"Little or nothing more can be done there, and there are people enough onthe ground now to leave us free to attend to you, " said Mr. Dinsmore. 

The doctor was speaking aside to Donald and Solon. 

Coming back, "We will have a litter ready in a few moments, " he said, "and carry you over to Ion. "

"By all means, " said Mr. Dinsmore. "You accompany us, of course, Arthur?"

"Certainly, sir. "

"How is she--the old negress? Was she much injured by the fall?" CaptainRaymond asked. 

No one could tell him, and he begged the doctor to attend to her while thelitter was preparing. 

Arthur went in search of her, and presently returned, saying she hadescaped without any broken bones, though apparently a good deal shaken upand bruised. 

CHAPTER IX. 

 "Man proposes, but God disposes. "

Donald left Ion the next morning, going away sadly and alone, yet tryingto be truly thankful that his friend's injuries, though severe, were notpermanent, and that he left him where he would have the best of medicaltreatment and nursing. 

"Don't be uneasy about the captain, " Mr. Dinsmore said in parting; "I canassure you that Arthur is a skilful physician and surgeon, and we haveseveral negro women who thoroughly understand nursing. Beside my wife, Elsie and I will oversee them and do all in our power for the comfort andrestoration of the invalid. "

"Thank you, cousin. I am sure nothing will be left undone that skill andkindness can do, " Donald said, shaking with warmth the hand Mr. Dinsmoreheld out to him. "Raymond is one in a thousand. I've known him for years, and he has been a good and valuable friend to me. I wish it were possiblefor me to stay and wait on him myself; but army men are not their ownmasters, you know. He'll be wanting to get back to his ship before he'sable. Don't let him. "

"Not if I can prevent it, " was Mr. Dinsmore's laughing rejoinder. "By theway, should not some word be sent to his wife?"

"Wife! She has been dead some two years, I think. I asked him if there wasany relative he would wish informed of his condition, and he said no; hisparents were not living, he had neither brother nor sister, and hischildren were too young to be troubled about it. "

"Poor fellow!" ejaculated Mr. Dinsmore, thinking of his own happierlot--the sweet wife and daughter at Ion, the other daughter and son, father, sisters, grandchildren and nephews who would flock about him intender solicitude, were he laid low by sickness or accident. 

Leaving Donald in the city, he drove back to Ion full of sympathy for hisinjured guest and admiration for his courage and fortitude; for he hadmade no moan or complaint, though evidently suffering great pain and muchsolicitude on account of the long prospective detention from officialduty. 

The doctor's verdict was, a week or more in bed, probably six weeks beforethe ankle could be used. 

"You must get me up much sooner than that, doctor, if it be a possiblething, " Captain Raymond said most emphatically. 

"I can only promise to do my best, " was Arthur's response. "Nature musthave time for her work of recuperation. "

Elsie met her father in the entrance hall on his return. "Ah, papa, " shesaid, looking up smilingly into his face, "I think you will have torescind your order. "

"In regard to what?" he asked, stopping to lay a hand lightly on hershoulder, while he smoothed her hair caressingly with the other. 

"The week of entire rest you bade me take. "

"No; there is to be no recall of that order. "

"But our poor injured guest, father? injured in the noble effort to savethe life of another!"

"He shall have every care and attention without any assistance from you;or Rose either; at least for the present. "

"But, dear papa, to have you worn out and made ill would be worse thananything else. "

"That does not follow as an inevitable consequence, and you may safelytrust me to take excellent care of number one, " he said, with playful lookand tone. 

"Ah, papa, there is not the least use in your trying to make me believethere is any selfishness in you!"

"No, I presume not; you have always been persistently blind to my manyimperfections. Well, daughter, you need not be troubled lest I shouldwaste too much strength on the poor captain. I do not imagine him to be anexacting person, and we have enough efficient nurses among the servants todo all the work that is needful. My part will be, I think, principally tocheer him, keep up his spirits, and see that he is provided witheverything that can contribute to comfort of mind and body. I must leaveyou now and go to him. I advise a drive for you and your mamma as soon asyou can make ready for it; the air is delightfully clear and bracing. "

"Thank you, papa; the advice shall be followed immediately so far as I amconcerned, and the order carefully obeyed, " she answered, as he moved ondown the hall. 

The smile with which the captain greeted Mr. Dinsmore's entrance into theroom where he lay in pain and despondency was a rather melancholy one. 

"My dear sir, I feel for you!" Mr. Dinsmore said, seating himself by thebedside, "but you are a brave man and a Christian, and can endure hardnessas a good soldier of Jesus Christ!"

There was a flash of joy in the sufferer's eyes as he turned them upon thespeaker, "That, sir, is the most comforting and sustaining thing youcould have said to me! Through what suffering was the Captain of oursalvation made perfect! And shall I shrink from enduring a little in Hisservice? Ah no! And when I reflect that I might have been killed, and mydear children left fatherless, I feel that I have room for nothing butthankfulness that it is as well with me as it is. "

"And that some good will be brought out of this trial we cannot doubt, "Mr. Dinsmore said; "for 'we know that all things work together for good tothem that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. '"

"Yes; and 'I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are notworthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. ' 'Weglory in tribulation also, knowing that tribulation worketh patience, andpatience experience, and experience hope, and hope maketh not ashamed;because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghostwhich is given unto us. '"

"What a wonderful book the Bible is!" remarked Mr. Dinsmore meditatively;"what stores of comfort and encouragement it contains for all in whateverstate or condition! 'The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousandsof gold and silver. '"

"Yes; how true it is, Mr. Dinsmore, that 'it is not in man that walketh todirect his steps'! I had so fully resolved to return to-day to my vessel, and now when may I hope to see her? Not in less than six weeks, the doctortells me. "

"A weary while it must seem in prospect. But we will do all we can to makeit short in passing and prevent you from regretting the necessity oftarrying with us for so much longer time than you had intended, " Mr. Dinsmore answered in a cheery tone. 

"Your great kindness is laying me under lasting obligations, Mr. Dinsmore, " the captain responded, with glistening eyes, "obligations whichI shall never, I fear, have an opportunity to repay. "

"My dear sir, I am truly thankful to have it in my power to do what can bedone to alleviate your sufferings and restore the health and vigor you sonobly sacrificed for another. Beside, what Christian can recall theMaster's assurance that He will consider any kindness done to any followerof His as done to Himself, and not rejoice in the opportunity to be ofservice to a fellow-disciple, be it man, woman, or child?"

"Yes, And the King shall answer and say unto them, 'Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, yehave done it unto me. '"

"Ah, captain, don't talk of obligation to one who has a recompense such asthat in view!" Mr. Dinsmore said, a smile on his lip, a glad light in hiseye. 

The captain stretched out his hand and grasped that of his host. "Whatcause for gratitude that I have fallen into the care of those who canappreciate and act from such motives!" he exclaimed with emotion. 

"You are the hero of the hour, my friend, " Mr. Dinsmore remarked after ashort silence. "I wish you could have seen the faces of my wife, daughter, and granddaughter when they heard of the noble, unselfish, and courageousdeed which was the cause of your sore injuries. "

"Don't mention it!" exclaimed the captain, a manly flush suffusing hisface; "who could stand by and see a fellow-creature perish without so muchas stretching out a helping hand?"

In the weeks that followed Captain Raymond won golden opinions from thosewith whom he sojourned, showing himself as capable of the courage ofendurance as of that more ordinary kind that incites to deeds of daring;he was always patient and cheerful, and sufficiently at leisure fromhimself and his own troubles to show a keen interest in those about him. 

After the first week he was able to take possession of an invalid-chair, which was then wheeled into the room where the family were wont to gatherfor the free and unconstrained enjoyment of each other's society. 

They made him one of themselves, and he found it a rare treat to be amongthem thus day after day, getting such an insight into their domestic lifeand true characters as years of ordinary intercourse would not have givenhim. He learned to love them all--the kind, cheerful, unselfish olderpeople; the sweet-faced, gentle, tender mother; the fair and lovelymaiden, lovely in mind and person; the brave, frank, open-hearted lads, and the dear, innocent little ones. 

He studied them all furtively and with increasing interest, growing moreand more reconciled the while to his involuntary detention among them. 

Oftentimes they were all there, but occasionally one of the grandparentsor the mother would be away at Roselands for a day or two, taking turns inministering to Mrs. Conly, and comforting and cheering her feeble oldfather. 

"You have no idea, my dear sir, " the captain one day remarked to his host, "how delightful it is to a man who has passed most of his life onshipboard, away from women and children, to be taken into such a familycircle as this! I think you who live in it a highly favored man, sir!"

"I quite agree with you, " Mr. Dinsmore said "I think we are anexceptionally happy family, though not exempt from the trials incident tolife in this world of sin and sorrow. "

"Your daughter is an admirable mother, " the captain went on, "so gentleand affectionate, and yet so firm; her children show by their behaviorthat their training has been very nearly ii not quite faultless. And inseeing so much of them I realize as never before the hardship of theconstant separation from my own which my profession entails, as I askmyself, 'If I were with them thus day after day, should I find them asobedient, docile, and intelligent as these little ones? Will my Max be asfine a lad as Harold or Herbert? Can I hope to see Lulu and Gracie growingup into such lovely maidenhood as that of Miss Violet?"

"I sincerely hope you may be so blessed, captain, " Mr. Dinsmore said, "butmuch will depend upon the training to which they are subjected. There istruth in the old proverb, 'Just as the twig is bent the tree's inclined. '"

"Yes, sir; and a higher authority says, 'Train up a child in the way heshould go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. ' But mydifficulty is that I can neither train them myself, nor see that the workis rightly done by others. "

"That is sad, indeed, " Mr. Dinsmore replied with sincere sympathy. "But, my dear sir, is there not strong consolation in the thought that you canpray for them, and that 'the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous manavaileth much'?"

"There is indeed, sir!" the captain said with emotion. "And also in thepromise, 'I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seedafter thee in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be a Godunto thee, and to thy seed after thee. '"

CHAPTER X. 

 "One Pinch, hungry, leanfac'd villain. " --_Shake. _

Captain Raymond's two little daughters were at this time in a village inone of the Northern States, in charge of Mrs. Beulah Scrimp, a distantrelative on the mother's side. 

Mrs. Scrimp was a widow living in rather genteel style in a house and uponmeans left her by her late husband. She was a managing woman, fond ofmoney; therefore glad of the increase to her income yielded by the liberalsum Captain Raymond had offered her as compensation for the board and careof his motherless little girls. 

She had undertaken Max also at first, but given him up as beyond hercontrol; and now, though continuing to attend school in the town, heboarded with the Rev. Thomas Fox, who lived upon its outskirts. 

Mrs. Scrimp was a woman of economies, keeping vigilant watch over allexpenditures, great and small, and employing one servant only, who wascook, housemaid, and laundress all in one, and expected to give everymoment of her time to the service of her mistress, and be content withsmaller wages than many who did less work. 

Mrs. Scrimp was a woman of theories also, and her pet one accorded wellwith the aforementioned characteristic. It was that two meals a day weresufficient for any one, and that none but the very vigorous andhard-working ought to eat anything between three o'clock in the afternoonand breakfast-time the next morning. 

That was a rule to which neither Max nor Lulu could ever be made tosubmit; but Grace, the youngest, a delicate, fragile child, with littleforce of will, had no strength or power to resist, so fell a victim to thetheory; each night went supperless to bed, and each day found herself toofeeble and languid to take part in the active sports in which her strongersister delighted. 

It is quite possible that Mrs. Scrimp had no intention of being cruel, butmerely made the not uncommon mistake of supposing that what is good forone person is of course good for everybody else. She was dyspeptic, andinsisted that she found her favorite plan exceedingly beneficial in herown case; therefore she was sure so delicate a child as Gracie ought toconform to the same regimen. 

She seemed fond of the little girl, petted and caressed her, calling herby many an endearing name, and telling her very often that she was "agood, biddable child; far better than fiery-tempered, headstrong Lulu. "

Lulu would hear the remark with a scornful smile and toss of the head, sometimes saying proudly, "I wouldn't let anybody call you names to me, Gracie; and I wouldn't be such a little goose as to be wheedled andflattered into putting up with being half-starved. "

There had been a time when Mrs. Scrimp tried to prevent and punish suchdaring words, but she had given it up long since, and contented herselfwith sighing sadly over the "depravity of that irrepressible child. "

She had once or twice threatened to write to Captain Raymond and tell himthat Lulu was unmanageable, but the child coolly replied, "I wish youwould; for then papa would send Gracie and me somewhere else to stay. "

"Where you would, perhaps, fare a great deal worse, " returned Mrs. Scrimpwrathfully. 

"I am willing to risk it, " Lulu said; and that was the end of it, for Mrs. Scrimp would have been very loath to lose the children's board. 

One pleasant October morning Lulu came down a trifle late to herbreakfast. Mrs. Scrimp and Gracie were already seated at the table andhad began their meal. 

"Lulu, " said Mrs. Scrimp with a portentous frown, "you were in the pantrylast night, helping yourself. "

"Of course I was, " returned the child as she took her seat at the table. "I told you I wouldn't go without my supper, and you didn't have Ann getany for me; so what could I do but go and help myself?"

"You have no right to go to my pantry and take the food that belongs tome. It's neither more nor less than stealing, Miss Lulu Raymond. "

"Well, Aunt Beulah, what do you call it when you take the money my fatherpays you for feeding Gracie and me, and don't give us the food he has paidfor?"

Mrs. Scrimp colored violently at that, but quickly answered, "He doesn'tpay for any particular kind or quantity, and doesn't want you overfed; andI don't consider it at all good for you to eat after three o'clock, asI've told you fifty times. "

"Oftener than that, I dare say, " returned Lulu with indifference, "but youmight say it five hundred times and I shouldn't believe it a bit the more. Papa and mamma never had us put to bed without our supper; they alwaysgave us plenty to eat whenever we were hungry, and Gracie was farstronger then than she is now. "

Mrs. Scrimp was exasperated into a return to old tactics. "Lulu, you arethe most impudent child I ever saw!" she exclaimed, "and shall go withoutsupper to-night, if it were only to punish you for talking as you havethis morning. "

"No, I'll not. I'll have something to eat if I must go to the neighborsfor it. "

"I'll lock you up. "

"Then I'll call out to the people in the street and tell them you won'tgive me enough to eat. And just as soon as papa comes I'll tell him allabout it right before you. "

"You wouldn't dare tell him how you've talked to me; he'd punish you foryour impertinence. "

"No, he would say it was justifiable under the circumstances. "

"Dear me!" sighed Mrs. Scrimp, lifting hands and eyes in holy horror, "what a time your stepmother will have with you! I shouldn't want to be inher place. "

"My stepmother!" cried Lulu, growing very red, while her dark eyes flashedwith anger. "I haven't any! What do you mean by talking in that way, AuntBeulah?"

Mrs. Scrimp's laugh jarred very unpleasantly upon the nerves of theexcited child. 

"Your father will be presenting you with one some of these days, I'llwarrant, " she said in a tantalizing tone. 

Lulu felt ready to burst into passionate weeping, but would not give hertormentor the satisfaction of seeing her do so. She struggled determinedlywith her emotion, and presently was able to say in a tone of perfectindifference: "Well, I don't care if he does; anything will be better thanstaying here with you. "

"Ungrateful, hateful child!" said Mrs. Scrimp. "Gracie's a real comfort tome, but you are just the opposite. "

"Aunt Beulah, " said Lulu, fixing her keen eyes steadily upon Mrs. Scrimp'sface, "you've called me ungrateful ever so many times. Now I'd like toknow what I have to be grateful for toward you? My father pays you wellfor everything you do for Gracie and me. "

"There are some things that can't be bought with money, and that moneycan't pay for, Miss Impertinence;" and Mrs. Scrimp, having satisfied herappetite, rose from the table and, taking Gracie by the hand, walked outof the room with her in the most dignified manner. 

Presently afterward Lulu saw her, through the window, in bonnet and shawland with a basket on her arm, going out to do the marketing. 

Having finished her breakfast, Lulu walked into the sitting-room. 

Gracie lay on the sofa looking pale and weak. Lulu went to her, strokedher hair, and kissed her. 

"Poor little Gracie! weren't you hungry for some supper last night?"

"Yes, Lulu, " replied the child, lifting a thin white little hand andstroking her sister's face, "but Aunt Beulah says it makes me worse to eatat night. "

"I don't believe it!" cried Lulu vehemently, and half stamping her foot, "and I'm going to write a letter to papa and tell him how she starves you, and would starve me too if I'd let her!"

"I wish papa would come!" sighed Gracie. "Lulu, did it use to make us sickto eat supper when we lived with papa and mamma?"

"No, never a bit! O Gracie, Gracie, why did mamma die? why did God takeher away from us when we need her so much? I can't love Him for that! Idon't love Him!" she exclaimed with a sudden shower of tears, albeit notmuch given to shedding them. 

"Don't cry, Lulu, " Gracie said in distress, "maybe papa will find anothermamma for us. I wish he would. "

"I don't! stepmothers are always hateful! I'd hate her and never mind aword she said. O Max, Max! I'm so glad to see you!" as a handsome, dark-eyed, merry-faced boy came rushing in. 

"I've just come for a minute!" he cried half breathlessly, catching her inhis arms, giving her a resounding kiss, then bending over Gracie with asudden change to extreme gentleness of manner; she was his baby sister andso weak and timid. 

"Poor little Gracie!" he said softly. "I wish I was a big man to take youand Lulu away and give you a good time!"

"I love you, Max, " she returned, stroking and patting his cheek. "I wishyou'd be a good boy, so you could live here with us. "

"I don't want to, " he answered, frowning. "I mean I don't want to livewith her; I sha'n't ever call her aunt again. I wouldn't have come in if Ihadn't known she was out. I saw her going to market. I'm going off toMiller's Pond to fish for trout. You know it's Saturday and there's noschool. Jim Bates is going with me and we're to be back by noon; that is, old Tommy said I must. "

Lulu laughed at Max's irreverent manner of alluding to the man who had theoversight of him out of school hours; then jumping up, "O Max!" she cried, "I want to go too! I'll be ready in a minute. "

"What'll Mrs. Scrimp say?" laughed Max. 

Lulu tossed her head with a scornful smile which said more plainly thanwords that she did not care what Mrs. Scrimp might do or say in regard tothe matter, ran into the hall, and returned almost instantly with hat andsacque. 

"Come, Max, " she said, "we'd better be off before she gets back. Gracie, you won't mind being left alone for just a little bit? Ann's in thekitchen, you know. "

"I wish I could go too!" sighed Gracie. "I wish I could run about and havegood times like you and Max!"

"Maybe you will, some o' these days. Good-by, little one, " said Max, giving a parting pat to the little white cheek. 

"Good-by, " cried Lulu from the doorway; "don't fret, because maybe I'llfind something pretty to bring you when I come back. "

She took a small basket from the table in the hall, Max shouldered hisfishing-rod, which he had left there behind the front door, and they wentout together. 

CHAPTER XI. 

 "Bear a fair presence, though your heart be tainted, Teach sin the carriage of a holy saint. " --_Shaks. _

The children walked very fast, glancing this way and that till satisfiedthat there was no longer any danger of encountering Mrs. Scrimp, thentheir pace slackened a little and they breathed more freely. 

"Won't she be mad because you came without asking her, Lu?" queried Max. 

"I s'pose so. "

"What'll she do about it?"

"Scold, scold, scold! and threaten to make me fast; but she knows shecan't do that. I always manage to get something to eat. I've found a keythat fits the pantry door; so I just help myself. She doesn't know aboutthe key and wonders how it happens; thinks she forgot to lock it. "

"But, Lulu, you wouldn't steal!"

"'Taint stealing to take what papa pays for! Max, you're too stupid!"cried Lulu indignantly. 

Max gave a long, low whistle. "Fact, Lu! that's so! our father does payfor more than we can possibly eat, and expects us to have all we want. "

"Do you get enough, Max?"

"Yes; and right good too. Mrs. Fox is real good and kind; but he's justawful! I tell you, Lu, if I don't thrash him within an inch of his lifewhen I grow to be a man, it'll be queer. "

"Tell me about him! what is it he does to you?"

"Well, in the first place, he pretends to be very good and pious; hepreaches and prays and talks to me as if I were the greatest sinner in theworld, while all the time he's ten times worse himself and the biggestkind of a hypocrite. He tells me it's very wicked when I get angry at hishateful treatment of me, and gets as mad as a March hare himself whilehe's talking about it. "

"Well, I'd let him storm and never care a cent. "

"Yes, but that isn't all; he beats me dreadfully for the least littlething, and sometimes for nothing at all. One time he bought a new padlockfor the barn-door and pretty soon it disappeared. He couldn't find itanywhere, so he called me and asked me what I had done with it. I said Ihadn't touched it, hadn't seen it, didn't even know he had bought one; andthat was the truth. But he wouldn't believe me; he said I must have takenit, for I was the only mischievous person about the place, and if I didn'town up and show him where it was, he'd horsewhip me till I did. "

"O Max! the wicked old wretch!" cried Lulu, between her clenched teeth. "What did you do? You couldn't tell a lie!"

"No, I thought I couldn't, Lu; and oh, I'm so ashamed!" said Max, growingvery red and tears starting to his eyes. "But he beat me, and beat me, andbeat me till I thought he'd kill me; and so to stop him at last I said Itook it. But I didn't gain anything, for of course he asked next where itwas, and I couldn't tell him, because I didn't know. So he began again;but I fainted, and I suppose that scared him and made him stop. He didn'tsay anything more about the padlock till weeks afterward it was found inthe hay, and it was clear that I hadn't anything to do with it. "

"Oh, the old wretch!" cried Lulu again. "Did he tell you then he was sorryfor having abused you so when you were innocent?"

"No, indeed! not he! He said, 'Well, you didn't deserve it that time, butI've no doubt you've escaped many a time when you did. '"

"Max, I'd never stand it! I'd run away!" exclaimed Lulu, stopping shortand facing her brother with eyes that fairly blazed with indignation. 

"I've thought of that, Lu; I've felt tempted to do it more than once, " Maxsaid with a sigh; "but I thought how papa would feel hearing of it. I'drather bear it all than have him feel that his son had done anything todisgrace him. "

"Max, you're better than I am!" cried Lulu with affectionate warmth. "I'dnever have thought of anything but how to get away as fast as possiblefrom that horrid, horrid beast of a man. "

"Papa thinks he's good, and that's the reason he put me with him. Oh, butdon't I wish he knew the truth!"

"I should think the old rascal would be afraid of what papa may do when hecomes and hears all the things you'll have to tell. "

"I suppose he thinks papa will believe his story instead of mine; andperhaps he will, " said Max a little sadly. 

"No; don't you be one bit afraid of that!" cried Lulu, hotly. "Papa knowsyou're a truthful boy. His children couldn't be liars!"

"But you know I can't say any more that I've never told an untruth, " saidMax, coloring painfully. 

"Well, you couldn't help it, " Lulu said, trying to comfort him. "I'mafraid that I might have done it myself to keep from being killed. "

"Hello! here comes Jim!" cried Max with a sudden change of tone, his facebrightening wonderfully as a lad somewhat older in appearance thanhimself, and carrying a fishing-rod over his shoulder, came hurrying downa lane and joined them. 

"Hello! Max, " he said; "we've a splendid day for fishing, haven't we?"Then in a whisper, "Who's this you're taking along?"

"My sister Lulu, " Max answered aloud. "She'll help us dig worms for bait, won't you, Lu?"

"Yes, if you'll let me fish a little after you've caught some. "

"Good-morning, Miss Lulu, " said Jim, lifting his hat. 

"Good-morning, " she returned, giving him a careless nod. 

"It's a long walk for a girl, " he remarked. 

"Oh, " said Max, laughing, "she's half boy; ain't you, Lu?"

"I s'pose; if you mean in walking, jumping and running. Aunt Beulah callsme a regular tomboy. But I'd rather be that than stay cooped up in thehouse all the time. "

They had now left the town behind, and presently they turned from thehighway and took a narrow path that led them deep into the woods, now inthe very height of their autumnal beauty. 

The sun shone brightly, but through a mellow haze; the air was deliciouslypure, cool, and bracing. 

The children's pulses bounded, they laughed and jested; the boys whistledand Lulu sang in a voice of birdlike melody. 

"O Max, " she said, "I wish Gracie was well and with us here!"

"Yes, so do I, " he answered; "but 'tisn't likely she can ever be stronglike you and me, Lu. "

"Well, I'll tell her all about it and take her all the pretty things I canfind. Oh, what a lovely place!" as they came out upon the shore of thepond, a tiny sheet of clear still water surrounded by woods and hillsexcept where a rivulet entered it on one side and left it on the other. 

"Yes, " assented Jim, "it's a right nice place, is Miller's Pond, and haslots of nice fish in it. "

The boys laid down their rods, Lulu her basket, and all three fell todigging for earth-worms. 

When they deemed that they had a sufficient quantity of bait, the ladsseated themselves on the roots of a fallen tree close to the water, each, with fishing-rod in hand, and Lulu, picking up her basket, wandered offamong the trees and bushes. 

"Don't go too far away and get lost, " Max called after her. 

"No, " she answered, "I'll not go out of sight of the pond; so I can easilyfind my way back. But don't you go off and leave me. "

"No; if you're not here, I'll hallo when we're 'most ready to start. "

What treasures Lulu found as she wandered here and there, every now andthen turning to look for the pond, and make sure that she was not losingherself, there were acorn-cups, lovely mosses, beautiful autumnleaves--red, orange, golden and green; there were wild grapes too, andhazel-nuts, brown and ripe. Of all these she gathered eagerly until herbasket was full, thinking that some would delight Gracie, otherspropitiate Aunt Beulah. 

And now she made her way back to the spot where the boys still sat, eachwith his line in the water. 

"Have you caught any?" she asked. 

"Yes, " said Max, "I've caught six and Jim has eight. There! I've gotanother!" giving his line a jerk that sent a pretty speckled troutfloundering in the grass. 

"I'll take it off the hook for you, " said Lulu, springing forward anddropping on her knees beside it. "And then you'll let me try, won't you?"

"Yes, " Max answered in a half-reluctant tone, getting up to give her hisplace. 

"There are hazel-nuts right over there a little way, " Lulu said, pointingwith her finger. 

"Oh, then I'll have some!" cried Max, starting on a run in the directionindicated. 

He came back after a while bringing some in his hat, picked up somestones, and seating himself near the others, cracked his nuts, sharinggenerously with them. 

Presently Lulu had her first bite, succeeded in bringing her prize safelyto land, and was quite wild with delight. 

Max rejoiced with her, taking brotherly pride in her success. 

"You'll do for a fisherman or fisherwoman, " he said gayly. "I sha'n't bemuch surprised if you beat me at it one o' these days. "

Then struck with a sudden unwelcome thought, "I wonder what time it is!"he exclaimed, jumping up from the ground in haste and perturbation. "Doyou s'pose it's noon yet, Jim?"

"Which way's the sun?" queried the latter, glancing toward the sky; "itought to be right overhead at noon. Why, it's down some toward the west! Ishouldn't wonder if it's as late as two o'clock. "

"Two o'clock!" cried Max in dismay, "and I was to be back by noon! Won't Icatch it!" and he began gathering up his fish and fishing-tackle in greathaste, Jim doing likewise, with the remark that he would be late to dinnerand maybe have to go without. 

Lulu was giving Max all the assistance in her power, her face full ofsympathy. 

"Max, " she whispered, hurrying along close at his side as they started ontheir homeward way, "don't let that horrid, cruel, wicked man beat you! Iwouldn't. I'd fight him like anything!"

Max shook his head. "'Twouldn't do any good, Lulu; he's so much bigger andstronger than I am that fighting him would be worse for me than taking thethrashing quietly. "

"I could never do that!" she said. "But don't wait for me if you want togo faster. "

"I don't, " said Max. 

"Well, I b'lieve I'd better make all the haste I can, " said Jim. "Sogood-by, " and away he sped. 

"Oh, if papa only knew all about how that brute treats you!" sighed Lulu. 

"Max, can't we write him a letter?"

"I do once in a while, but old Tom always reads it before it goes. "

"I wouldn't let him. I'd hide away somewhere to write it, and put it inthe post-office myself. "

"I have no chance, he gives me only a sheet of paper at a time, and mustalways know what I do with it. It's the same way with my pocket money; soI can't buy postage-stamps; and I don't know how to direct the lettereither. "

"Oh dear! and it's just the same way with me!" sighed Lulu. "When willpapa come? I'm just sick to see him and tell him everything!"

When they reached Mrs. Scrimp's door Max gave Lulu his string of fish, saying, "Here, take them, Sis. It's no use for me to keep 'em, for Ishouldn't get a taste; and maybe they'll put her in a good humor withyou. "

"Thank you, " she said. "O Max, I wish you could eat them yourself!" Hereyes were full of tears. 

"I'd rather you'd have 'em; you and Gracie, " he said cheerfully. "Good-by. "

"Good-by, " she returned, looking after him as he hurried away, whistlingas he went. 

"He's whistling to keep his courage up. O Max! poor Max! I wish I couldgive that man the worst kind of a flogging!" Lulu sighed to herself, thenturned and went into the house. 

She heard Mrs. Scrimp's voice in the kitchen scolding Ann for letting thebread burn in the oven. It was an inauspicious moment to appear beforeher, but Lulu marched boldly in, holding up her string of fish. 

"See, Aunt Beulah! they're just fresh out of the water, and won't theymake us a nice dinner?"

"And they're your favorite fish, ma'am, them pretty speckled trout is, "put in Ann, glad to make a diversion in her own favor, as well as to helpLulu out of a scrape; "and I'll go right to work to clean 'em and have 'emready for the frying-pan in less than no time. "

"Yes, they'll be very nice; and the meat will keep for to-morrow, " was thegracious rejoinder. "You oughtn't to have gone off without leave, Lulu;but I suppose Max couldn't wait. "

"No, Aunt Beulah, he said he couldn't stay more than a minute. Shall Ihelp Ann clean the fish?"

"No; go and make yourself tidy. Your hands are dirty, your apron soiled, and your hair looks as if it hadn't been combed for a week. "

Mrs. Scrimp's face was gathering blackness as she scanned the figure ofthe young delinquent from head to foot, spying out all that was amiss withit. 

"I will, " said Lulu, moving toward the door with cheerful alacrity. "Oh, Iforgot!" and rushing into the hall, she came back the next minutebringing her basket of treasures. 

"See, Aunt Beulah, I've brought you lots of lovely leaves; you know yousaid you wanted some to make a wreath; and here are mosses, and grapes, and hazel-nuts. "

"Why you have made good use of your time, " Mrs. Scrimp said, now entirelymollified. "Bring your basket into the sitting-room, where Gracie is; andwe'll look over its contents. "

Max was less fortunate to-day than his sister. His custodian was on thelook-out for him, cowhide in hand, and seizing him roughly, as he enteredthe gate, with a fierce, "I'll teach you to disobey orders another time, you young vagabond! I told you to come home at noon, and you're over twohours behind time!" began to administer an unmerciful flogging. 

"Stop!" cried Max, trying to dodge the blows. "How could I tell the time?I came as soon as I thought it was noon. "

But his tormentor was in a towering passion and would not stay his hand tolisten to any excuse. 

"Do you mean to kill me?" screamed Max. "You'll hang for it if you do. Andmy father----"

"Your father believes in enforcing obedience to orders, sir; andI'll----"

But at this instant there was an interference from a third party. 

At a little distance some men were at work hewing timber. They had beenworking there for weeks, in which Max had made acquaintance and become agreat favorite with them, particularly one called by his companions, "BigBill, " because of his great size and strength. 

He was a rough, good-natured man, with nothing of the bully about him, butregarded with intense scorn and indignation any attempt on the part of thestrong to tyrannize over the weak and defenceless. 

He and his comrades had seen and heard enough in these weeks of labor inthe vicinity of Fox's residence to inspire them with contempt and disliketoward him on account of his treatment of Max. They had among themselvesalready pronounced him "a wolf in sheep's clothing, a hypocrite and acoward. "

They had seen him watching for the boy with his instrument of torture inhis hand, and their wrath had waxed hot. 

When Max came in sight they dropped their tools and looked to see whatwould happen, and at the first blow "Big Bill" muttering between hisclenched teeth, "I'll settle his hash for him, " started for the scene ofaction. "Stop that!" he roared, "stop that, you old hypocriticalscoundrel! You hit that boy another lick and I'll knock you as flat as aflounder!"

The hand that held the whip dropped at Fox's side, and the other loosedits hold on Max as he turned and faced his assailant. 

"What do you mean by coming here to interfere in my business?" hedemanded. 

"I mean to protect the weak against the strong, sir. I consider that mybusiness. You've given that boy more unmerciful beatings already than heought to have had in a lifetime, and he not at all a bad boy either. Iknow all about that padlock affair, though he's never breathed a word tome on the subject, and I'd enjoy nothing better than thrashing yousoundly; what's more I'll do it if ever I know you to strike him again; ormy name's not Bill Simpson. Max, if he ever does, you've only to let 'BigBill' hear of it and he'll get ten times more than he's given. "

"Thank you, Bill, " said Max, running to the big, kind-hearted fellow andgiving him his hand. "I'm glad to be protected from him, though I don'twant him hurt if he'll only let me alone. "

Fox had already stalked away in the direction of the house, swelling withinward wrath, but assuming an air of injured innocence and offendeddignity. 

Standing in wholesome fear of Max's self-constituted defender, he neveragain ventured to lay violent hands on the lad, but contented himself withinflicting many petty annoyances. 

CHAPTER XII. 

 "Except I be by Silvia in the night, There is no music in the nightingale; Unless I look on Silvia in the day, There is no day for me to look upon. " --_Shakspeare_. 

It was already past the middle of November when Captain Raymond receivedhis injuries, so that the six weeks or more of enforced inaction wouldcarry him into the month of January. 

He had hoped to spend Christmas with his children, but that was nowclearly impossible, as he sadly owned to himself, for he was a lovingfather and felt the disappointment keenly on both his own account andtheirs. 

There would be no festivities at Ion this year, bereavement was still toorecent with themselves, too imminent with those very near by the ties ofkindred. But there was to be an exchange of gifts; there had been thateven last year when but a few months had elapsed since the departure tothe better land of the beloved husband and father. 

Captain Raymond, sitting quietly in his invalid chair, generally to allappearance buried in a book, overheard many a consultation in regard towhat would be most acceptable to this or that one who happened to beabsent from the room at the moment, for it was intended that most of thegifts, at least, should be a surprise to the recipients. 

One day when the talk was of those to be provided for Rosie and Walter, Mrs. Dinsmore noticed that their guest was listening with a veryinterested look. 

"Captain Raymond, " she said, turning to him with an engaging smile, "wepurpose to go into the city to-morrow to shop for these things; can we doanything in that line for you?"

"Thank you, " he said heartily, his face brightening very much; "if itwould not be overtaxing you, I should be very glad indeed to do someshopping by proxy; glad to have the benefit of your and Mrs. Travilla'staste and judgment in the selection of some Christmas presents for mychildren. It will be all I can do for them this year. I had thought ofsending money for the purpose, to the persons in charge of them, but itwould be far more satisfactory to me to have some share in the choice ofthe articles. "

Both ladies assured him that it would give them pleasure to do whateverthey could to assist him in making the desired purchases, and Mr. Dinsmore suggested that a variety of goods might be sent out from the citystores for him to select from. 

He said that was a good idea, but he would leave it to the ladies to havethat done, or to choose for him a book for each of his children, a dollfor each girl, and writing-desks, fully furnished, for Max and Lulu. 

"I think, " he added with a smile, "whatever I may give will seem to themmore valuable if sent from this distance than if bought near at hand. "

"Yes, " Mrs. Dinsmore said, "that is human nature. "

The shoppers set out the next morning soon after breakfast, expecting toreturn about the usual dinner-hour. 

Watching the departure from the window near which he was seated, thecaptain observed with pleasure that Violet was not of the party, hopingthat if left behind, she would give him the enjoyment of her societyduring the absence of the others. 

Presently she came in, bringing some needlework; Rosie and Walter withher. 

The captain closed the book he had been reading and turned toward themwith a pleased smile. 

"So I am not to be left to solitude, as I feared, " he remarked. 

"You must please send us away, sir, whenever you think that preferable toour company, " returned Violet lightly. 

"Do you deem me capable of such rudeness, Miss Travilla?" he asked withplayful look and tone. 

"We will not consider it such, " she answered, seating herself andbeginning her work, "since we can wander at will all over the house, while, for the present, you, sir, are a prisoner confined to this room andthe next. "

"That reminds me, " he said, "that of late you have absented yourself agreat deal from this room; to my no small discontent. "

"It is flattering to my vanity and self-appreciation to learn that youhave missed me, " she returned sportively, but with a slightly heightenedcolor. 

"You can never be away from the rest of us without being missed, Vi, "remarked Rosie; "especially now that Sister Elsie is away. "

"And do you not mean to gratify my curiosity as to what has been the causeof your many and prolonged absences, Miss Violet?" queried the captain. 

"I have been busy elsewhere, sir. But is it not an understood thing thatcuriosity is a peculiarly feminine trait?"

"I am able to plead guiltless to the charge of ever having made such aninsinuation, " said the captain; "and do now confess to having a full shareof inquisitiveness. "

"May I tell, Vi?" asked Rosie. 

"We must first learn whether Captain Raymond can keep a secret, " Vianswered, glancing at him with a saucy smile. 

"Yes, indeed!" he said, "as you shall learn if you will but allow me theopportunity. "

"Then I may tell I!" cried Rosie; and hardly waiting for her sister's nodof acquiescence, went on. "She is preparing such a nice surprise for dearmamma, Captain Raymond, a miniature of papa which she has been painting onivory. I think it looks more like him than any photograph or paintedportrait that we have. And I am sure mamma could not have a moreacceptable present. Besides that, Vi has painted two flower-pieces; onefor grandpa and one for grandma. "

"You have certainly been very industrious, Miss Violet, " he remarked. "Ihave heard your studio spoken of. May I hope for the pleasure of visitingit when I recover the free use of my limbs?"

"That will not be for some weeks, sir; and in the mean while I will takeyour request into consideration, " she answered demurely. 

The morning passed very rapidly to the captain; the children amused himwith their prattle, and when after an hour or two, Rosie grew tired of thebit of fancy-work she was doing under her sister's supervision, andyielded to Walter's entreaties to "come to the nursery and buildblock-houses, " thus leaving Violet his sole companion, the moments spedfaster than before; for he found her a very interesting and entertainingconversationist. 

On their return the shopping-party brought with them the articles he hadmentioned. He pronounced them all entirely satisfactory, and they werepacked and sent northward with the addition of some pretty things for thedolls, contributed by Violet and Rosie. 

Some unusual impulse of fatherly solicitude and affection led the captainto put his own address upon several envelopes in each writing-desk, stamping them also and adding a note to each of the three children. 

To Max and Lulu he said that he wanted letters from them which should notpass through the hands of a third person, "letters that should be like abit of private chat with papa. "

Seeing how tenderly and carefully the little Travillas were nurtured andwhat love was lavished upon them, had turned his thoughts frequently uponhis own motherless ones, and set him to thinking and asking himself ratheranxiously how they were faring in those respects. He had come to realizemore thoroughly than ever before his responsibility as a parent. 

The Christmas work which had kept Violet busy in her studio was nowfinished, and henceforth she spent much more of her time with the rest ofthe family; greatly to Captain Raymond's satisfaction, for much as headmired the other ladies and enjoyed conversing with them and with Mr. Dinsmore, he was quite conscious of a constant uneasiness and discontentwhen Violet absented herself from the room. 

His admiration for her beauty and grace had been unbounded from the first, and gradually as he discovered more and more of her sterling worth, hersweetness and unselfishness of disposition, her talent, industry, andgenuine piety, his heart had gone out to her in ardent affection; in factwith a deeper and stronger love than he had ever before known or dreamedof. 

He began to ask himself how he could ever go away and leave her, andwhether he dared seek to make her his own. He was fully as loath as DonaldKeith to appear in the rôle of fortune-hunter. Would Mr. Dinsmore and hisdaughter, so noble themselves, be ready to impute so unworthy a motive tohim? He hoped not, he believed they would judge him by themselves. Andthey who so fully knew and appreciated all that Violet was must see andbelieve that no man whose affections were not already engaged could bethrown into intimate association with her day after day, as he had beenfor so many weeks, and not learn to love her for herself alone. 

Then he had learned incidentally from Dr. Conly, that the older daughterhad married a poor artist with the full consent of her parents andgrandfather, his lack of wealth being considered no objection to his suit. 

Captain Raymond did not look upon wealth as the highest patent of nobilityeven in this republican country, but thought, in his manly independence, that his well-established reputation as an honorable, Christian gentleman, and officer of the United States Navy, made him in rank fully the peer ofthe Dinsmores and Travillas; and he believed that they would entirelyagree with him in that. 

But he was not a conceited man, and felt by no means sure that Violetherself would give a favorable hearing to his suit. Under the peculiar andtrying circumstances of his sojourn at Ion he had not been able to offerher any attention, and her uniform kindness had probably been shown onlyto her mother's invalid guest. And as he thought of the disparity of yearsbetween them, and how many younger, and perhaps in every way moreattractive men, must have crossed her path, his hopes sank very low. 

Yet he was not too proud to allow her the opportunity to reject him. Saying to himself, "Were I certain that she is indifferent to me, I wouldnot give her the pain of doing so--for I know her kind heart would feel ita pain--but as I am not sure of her feelings, it is only fair and just toher to let her know of mine and abide the issue, " he decided that he wouldnot go away without speaking, yet that he would first ask the consent ofher natural guardians. 

He therefore seized the first opportunity when alone with Mr. Dinsmore totell of his love for Violet, and ask if he could obtain his and themother's consent to the prosecution of his suit. 

Mr. Dinsmore seemed both surprised and moved. He did not speak for amoment, then, with a heavy sigh, "Has it come to this already, " he said"that we are likely to lose our little Vi? I don't know how either hermother or I can ever do without her! ever make up our minds to resign herto any one else!"

"I don't wonder at it, sir, " the captain said with feeling. "But may Iunderstand that you do not object to me personally?"

"No, sir, oh no! I see no objection to you more than to any other, exceptdisparity of years, Violet being so young; and that is not so great as itwas between her parents. "

"Then you give me some hope?"

"If you have won her affections, yes. How is it in regard to that?"

"I have said no word to her on the subject, Mr. Dinsmore--feeling that themore honorable course was first to ask permission of her mother andyourself--and am by no means certain that she cares for me at all exceptas a friend of the family and of her cousin, Lieut. Keith. Have I yourconsent, sir?"

"I will talk with my daughter, captain, and let you know the result. "

He rose as if to leave the room, but the captain detained him. 

"Let me tell you, " he said, coloring in spite of himself, "that I am notrich, having very little beside my pay. "

"That is a matter of small importance, " Mr. Dinsmore answered in a kindlytone, "seeing that riches are so apt to take wings and fly away, and thatthe Master said, 'A man's life consisteth not in the abundance of thethings which he possesseth. ' If her mother's wealth remains, Violet willbe well provided for, as I presume you are aware, yet I cannot for amoment suppose you capable of seeking her on that account. In fact, " heconcluded with a smile, "the child has nothing at all of her own, and hermother can, should she choose, leave her penniless. "

"And I should be more than willing to take her so, if I could get her, "the captain answered, returning the smile; "it would be a dear delight tome to provide her with all things desirable by my own exertions. "

"Excuse the question, Capt. Raymond, but have you taken into considerationthe fact that Violet's extreme youth must render her unfit for the caresand responsibilities of motherhood to your children?"

"Mr. Dinsmore, there is not a woman in a thousand of those twice her agewhom I would as willingly trust. But she shall have no care or labor thatI can save her from, always supposing I can be so happy as to win her formy own. "

The family had retired for the night to their own apartments. Mrs. Travilla, almost ready to seek her couch, sat alone in her dressing-roomin front of the brightly blazing wood fire; her open Bible was in herhand, a lamp burning on a little table by the side of her easy-chair. 

Her dressing-gown of soft white cashmere became her well, and her unboundhair lying in rich masses on her shoulders lent a very youthful look toface and figure. 

Her father thought, as he came softly in and stood at her side, gazingdown upon her, that he had seldom seen her more rarely beautiful. 

She lifted her eyes to his with the old sweet smile of filial love andreverence, shut her book and laid it on the table. 

He laid his hand gently on her head, bent down and kissed her on brow andcheek and lip. 

"Dear papa, won't you sit down?" she said, rising to draw up a chair forhim. 

"Yes, " he answered; "I want a little talk with you. How wonderfully youngyou look to-night!--so like my little girl of other days that I feel astrong inclination to invite you to your old seat upon my knee. Will youtake it?" sitting down and drawing her gently toward him. 

She yielded to his wish, saying, as she put her arm about his neck andgazed lovingly into his eyes, "I am still child enough to enjoy itgreatly, if I am not so heavy as to weary you, my dear father. "

"I do not feel your weight unpleasantly, " he returned. "You must rememberI am a very strong man, and you but a slight and delicate woman. Not soplump as I could wish to see you, " he added, pushing up the sleeve of hergown and clasping his fingers round the white arm. 

"Isn't there plenty of flesh there to hide the bones?" she askedlaughingly. 

"The bones are well hidden, but the flesh is not so solid as I would haveit. "

"Ah, papa, you must not be so hard to please!" she said, with playful lookand tone. "I think I'm in very good condition; am glad I'm not too heavyto sit here and play at being your own little girl again. What happy daysthose were! when I had not a care or anxiety except to please my earthlyand my heavenly father. "

"Would you like to go back to them?"

"No, dear father, your love and tender care made me a very happy child, but I have no desire to retrace my steps. I should far rather pressforward to the heavenly home whither you are travelling with me--'the restthat remaineth to the people of God, ' rest from sin as well as fromsorrow, pain, and care. "

"'Casting _all_ you care upon _Him_, for He careth for you. ' He who everliveth; He who hath all power in heaven and in earth; He who has said, 'Ihave loved thee with an everlasting love, ' 'I will never leave thee norforsake thee. ' Dear daughter, if cares and anxieties oppress you, askyourself what right a Christian has to be troubled with them. "

"None, papa, " she answered humbly; "I am thankful that I can say a beliefin His love and power prevents them from pressing very heavily, yet it ismy grief and shame that my faith is often too weak to lift the burdenentirely. "

"What is the particular burden to-night?" he asked tenderly. 

"My absent darlings, papa: my Elsie, now beginning with the cares ofmarried life, my eldest son exposed to I know not what dangers andtemptations. "

"But with the very same Almighty Friend their mother has to watch over andprotect, to comfort and sustain them. "

"Yes, papa! Oh, I ought not to have one anxious thought about them!"

"When such thoughts will arise, dear child, turn them into petitions ontheir behalf, and believing in God's willingness to hear and answerprayer, your heart may grow light. 

"But this is not exactly what I came to talk about. " Then he repeated thesubstance of his conversation with Capt. Raymond, and asked what answershe would give. 

Her surprise was as great as her father's had been, and a look of sorepain came into her face as she exclaimed, "Violet! my little Vi! must Ilose her too?"

"Perhaps not, dearest; it may be that she cares nothing for him. But youneed decide nothing to-night, and must try not to let the question keepyou awake. "

For a moment she seemed lost in thought, then lifting to his, eyesbrimful of tears, "Papa, " she said tremulously, "I cannot stand in the wayof my child's happiness, therefore I must let him speak, and learn fromher own lips whether she cares for him or not. "

"Yes, I think you are right. And now, daughter dear, I must bid yougood-night. But first I want you to promise me that you will determinatelycast this care on the Lord, and not let it rob you of needed sleep. "

They had both risen, and as he spoke he took her in his arms and held herclose to his heart. 

"I will, papa, in obedience to Him and to you, " she said, while for amoment her arm was about his neck, her head laid upon his breast. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

 "On you most loved, with anxious fear I wait, And from your judgment must expect my fate. " --_Addison_. 

Naturally Elsie's first waking thoughts on the following morning were ofViolet and her future. She was not a "match-making mamma, " not at alldesirous to be rid of her daughters, and had never once thought of Capt. Raymond as a possible suitor for Violet. 

He was not a very young man, and it was difficult to realize that Vi wasgrown up enough for her hand to be sought in marriage by even one near herown age, much less by the father of a family whose eldest child could notbe very many years younger than she. 

"She surely cannot fancy him!" the mother said to herself with a sigh ofrelief; but instantly came the remembrance that the disparity of years hadbeen still greater between herself and the husband she had loved with allthe strength of her nature--so loved that never for a moment could sheadmit the idea of the possibility that any other could fill his place inher heart. What more could she ask for her beloved child, for this life, than such wedded bliss as she herself had known?

But how could she spare her! especially so soon after resigning her sweetnamesake daughter to another. It was only the unselfishness of her motherlove which could at all reconcile her to the thought. 

She longed to know whether she were likely to be called upon to make thesacrifice, but generously resolved to use no means to discover the stateof her child's feelings until the captain had spoken. In the mean whileshe would neither make an opportunity for him nor throw any obstacle inhis way. 

Her toilet was scarcely complete, and she had just dismissed her maid, when a tap on her dressing-room door was followed by her father'sentrance. 

"Ah, papa! good-morning!" she said, her face growing bright with pleasure. "Are you well, my dear father?" going to him and putting her arms abouthis neck. 

"Perfectly, my darling, " he said, caressing her. "How are you? how did yousleep?"

"I am able to answer, Very well indeed, to both questions, papa, " shereturned brightly. 

"You didn't let worrying thoughts keep you awake?"

"Oh, no, sir!"

"And is your answer to Capt. Raymond still the same?"

"Yes, papa, " she said, with an involuntary sigh. 

"I don't believe you wish him success, " he remarked, with a slight smileand a keen, searching look into her face. 

"No, " she said, the tears starting to her eyes; "I had thought to keep mysweet child for years to come. "

"But you have no objection to him, more than you would have to any oneelse?"

"No, papa, I have learned to think very highly of him, and believe mydarling's happiness will be safe in his hands--if she loves him. Yet Itrust far more to your judgment than to my own. You approve of him, do younot?"

"Entirely; yet, like yourself, am so loath to part with Violet that Ishall heartily rejoice if she declares herself indifferent to him. "

"I long to end my suspense in regard to that, " Elsie said, "but havedecided to endure it until the captain has spoken; because it seems betterand kinder not to embarrass her by any hint of the state of his feelings. "

Her father expressed approval of her resolve, then as her children cametrooping in for their loved morning half hour with "mamma, " with theirbright faces and cheery greetings to her and grandpa, he left her andwent down to the parlor, where he found Capt. Raymond, and rejoiced hisheart with the favorable response to his request. 

There was something so peculiar in the mother's gaze into Violet's face asthey exchanged their morning greetings, it was so unwontedly keen andsearching, half sad and anxious too, that the young girl asked insurprise, "What is it, mamma?"

"My darling, you are very sweet, very precious to your mother's heart!"Elsie said with an earnest, tender kiss; then turned quickly away to hidethe tell-tale moisture in her eyes. 

Capt. Raymond was not long in finding or making his opportunity. 

It was the day before Christmas, and Rosie and Walter made frequentallusion to the exchange of gifts in which they expected to share thatevening. They were chatting with the captain about it, in the parlor, soonafter breakfast; talking of his children also; asking if he thought theyhad received his presents by this time, and that they would have a tree. 

Violet was sitting near, helping Rosie to dress some dolls for the littlecousins at the Laurels. Presently, one being quite ready, Rosie must runand show it to mamma, and Walter went with her. 

The door had scarcely closed on them, leaving Violet and the captain soleoccupants of the room, when he rose from his chair and, moving with somecare and difficulty, took another close at her side. 

"Are you not disobeying orders, sir, and in some danger of suffering forit?" she asked, looking at him with a mischievous smile. 

"No; I have the doctor's permission to try the ankle a little to-day, " heanswered. Then, with a slightly embarrassed air, "Miss Travilla, " he said, "I should like to--would you accept a Christmas gift from me?"

"You are very kind, sir, " she said, blushing vividly, "but I think I mustdecline. Mamma highly disapproves of young girls accepting presents fromtheir gentlemen friends. "

"But I have consulted her and your grandfather in regard to this, andobtained their permission to offer it and ask for a return in kind. Willyou accept my hand (the heart you have already won) and give me yours inexchange? Ah, I fear that you must think my presumption very great! I knowI am asking what a king might covet. I know that you, in your peerlessbeauty--so fair, so sweet, so good, so talented, so admired and soughtafter--are worthy of a throne, and I have not even wealth to offeryou--nothing, in fact, but the love of a man whose honor is unstained, andwho would cherish you as the apple of his eye. Ah, dearest girl, I haveno words to express the strength and power of the passionate affectionwith which you have inspired me!"

All this and much more in the same strain was poured out so rapidly andardently that Violet seemed overwhelmed by the torrent of words that hadcome rushing upon her so unexpectedly and without any warning. 

A deep blush overspread the fair face and neck, while her work fell fromher hand and her eyes sought the floor. 

When at length he paused for a reply, she started up, saying confusedly, in low, tremulous tones, "I--I am far from meriting the praises you haveheaped upon me, and I am very young and foolish--not fit for--for so nobleand good a man--so worthy to be highly honored. And I--oh, how could Ileave my dear, widowed mother!" Then, as approaching footsteps were heardin the hall without, she turned and fled from the room. 

"Ah, grandpa's little cricket, what is it? what has disturbed you so?"asked a well-known voice, in tones that spoke more pleasure than alarm, and Vi, as she hurried through the hall, half blinded by the tears in hereyes, felt herself closely clasped by two strong arms that held her fast. 

"Oh, grandpa! I--I wish he hadn't!" she stammered, dropping her face uponhis breast and bursting into tears. 

"Who, my pet? who has dared to ill use you?" he asked, caressing her. 

Vi lifted her head and looked up at him in surprise, for certainly histone was rather amused than angry or stern. Then at a sudden remembranceof the captain's assertion that he had sought and obtained hergrandfather's permission to offer her his hand, "Oh, grandpa, why did youlet him?" she said, again hiding her blushing face on his breast; "youknow I could never, never leave mamma! dear, dear mamma!"

"I am glad to hear it!" he returned with satisfaction, repeating hiscaresses, "for I don't know what either she or I could do without you. Andthat was your answer to Capt. Raymond?"

"Yes, sir. "

"Very well, go and tell mamma about it--she will be as glad as I am tohear that we are not to lose our darling little Vi--while I see what I cansay to comfort the captain. "

He released her as he spoke, and she flew to do his bidding. 

Rosie and Walter were still with their mother in her boudoir, but asViolet came in with her flushed, agitated face, they were gently bidden torun away for a little while. 

As the door closed on them, Violet dropped on her knees by her mother'schair and laid her head in her lap, hiding her face. 

"My dear child! my dear, precious little daughter!" Elsie said, softlysmoothing the golden tresses. 

"Mamma, you know?"

"Yes, dearest. "

"O mamma, I can't leave you! how could I?"

"Dear child! it would be a sore trial to have to part with you; and Icannot be sorry that you are not ready or willing to go. You are one ofthe very great blessings and comforts of your mother's life!"

"Dearest mother, thank you! They are very sweet words to hear from yourlips, " Violet said, lifting her face to look up into her mother's with abeautiful smile. 

"And so you have said your suitor nay?" Elsie asked, with playful look andtone. 

"I hardly know what I said, mamma, except that I was too young and foolishand couldn't leave you!"

"You do not care for him at all?"

"I--I don't know, mamma!" and the sweet, innocent face was suffused withblushes; "I had never thought of his fancying me--hardly more than achild--while he--mamma, is he not very noble and good and wise? and sobrave and unselfish!--you know how he risked his life to save a poor oldnegress; and how much he has suffered in consequence, and how patiently hehas borne it all!"

"And how handsome he is?"

"Yes, mamma, one reads the nobility of his nature in his face, and hisbearing is soldierly. "

"Ah, my little girl! my heart misgives me that I hold you by a very frailtenure!" Elsie sighed between a smile and a tear, as she bent her head tolook searchingly into the depths of the azure eyes. 

Violet's face crimsoned, and her head went down again into her mother'slap. 

"Mamma, you need not fear, " she said, very low and tremulously, "I haverejected his offer, and I cannot leave you. "

"I am much mistaken if he is so easily repulsed, " Elsie said. "He is abrave soldier, and will renew the assault nor raise the siege of mydaughter's heart until he has brought it to a full if not unconditionalsurrender. "

"Mamma, I wish I could run away. "

"Come, then, to the Laurels with me, and you need not return until bedtimeto-night, unless you choose. "

Vi's face brightened, then clouded again. "Thank you, mamma, I will go, yet it will be putting off the evil day for but a very little while. "

"It will give you time to think and analyze your own feelings, so that youwill be the better prepared for the next assault, " was the playfulrejoinder. "Go now, dear child, and make yourself ready. The carriagewill be at the door almost immediately--Arthur has consented to my takingthe children in a close carriage. They must return before sundown, but youneed not be in such haste. "

Mr. Dinsmore did not find Capt. Raymond looking so completely cast down ashe had expected. His face was slightly flushed, his expression somewhatperplexed and disappointed, but by no means despairing. 

"I fear I have been too precipitate, " he said, in answer to his host'sinquiring look. "'The more haste the less speed, ' as the old proverb hasit. I fear I frightened the dear girl by too sudden and vehement an avowalof my passion. Yet I trust it may not be too late to retrieve my error. "

"She rejected your suit?" Mr. Dinsmore said interrogatively. 

"Yes, she seemed to do so!" sighed the lover, "yet the objections sheurged are not insurmountable. She calls herself too young and foolish, butI hope to convince her that that is a mistake. Young she is indeed, butvery far from foolish. She cannot leave her mother is another objection, but that I should not ask her to do--as a landlubber might, " he addedsportively, "would in all probability. As much of my life must be spent atsea, it would not be worth while to set up a home of my own on land, if Ihad a wife who preferred to live with her mother. "

"Well, sir, that is certainly much in your favor, " said Mr. Dinsmore; "ourgreatest, almost our only objection to your suit being the thought ofparting with the child of our love. "

When Violet came home that evening she did not rejoin the family in theparlor, but went directly to her own apartments. 

"Where is mamma?" she inquired of her maid as she threw off her hat andcloak. 

"In de parlor, Miss Wi'let. "

"Are the children in bed and asleep?"

"Yes, miss. "

Violet opened a bureau drawer and took therefrom several small packages. Undoing one, she brought to light the miniature of her father which shehad painted. She carried it to the lamp and stood for some minutes gazingdown upon the beloved face with fast-falling tears. 

"Oh, papa, papa!" she murmured, "how hard it is to live without you!"

At length closing the case and restoring it to the box whence she hadtaken it, she gathered up the other parcels and went first to her mother'sdressing-room, where she laid the little box on the toilet-table, then onto the rooms occupied by her younger sister and brothers, leaving a giftfor each. 

Going back to her own rooms, she espied a letter directed to herself, which she had not noticed before. She had seen Capt. Raymond's handwritingfrequently during the weeks he had been at Ion, and recognized it at aglance. The rich color rushed over face and neck, and her heart beat fast. 

"Agnes, " she said to her maid, "you may go now; I shall not need you anymore to-night, " and the girl went out, leaving her alone. 

Even then she did not at once open her letter, but moved slowly back andforth for some minutes, with it in her hand. Then kneeling down she askedearnestly for heavenly guidance in this important crisis of her life. 

Looking into her own heart that day, she had learned that she was far fromindifferent to him who had asked her to exchange with him vows of mutuallove and trust, and to be the partner of his joys and sorrows. She was notindifferent, but did she love him well enough to leave, for his sake, thedear home of her childhood and the sweet mother to whom her heart had everclung with the most ardent affection?

CHAPTER XIV. 

 "Nor less was she in heart affected, But that she masked it with modesty, For fear she should of lightness be detected. " --_Spenser's "Fairy Queen. "_

Violet had lingered at the Laurels, with her Aunt Rose, for some hoursafter her mother returned to Ion with the children, and in the meanwhilethere had been a long talk between Mrs. Travilla and Capt. Raymond, inwhich he had pleaded his cause with all the eloquence an ardent passioncould inspire. 

Elsie's answer was, "If you have won my daughter's heart, her hand shallnot be refused you. But she is yet too young for the graveresponsibilities of married life. Nor can I reconcile myself to thethought of parting with her so soon; therefore I should greatly prefer tohave the matter dropped, at least for the present. "

The captain repeated what he had said to Mr. Dinsmore in regard to hiswillingness to leave Violet with her mother if only he might have her forhis wife. 

"That would be very pleasant, " Elsie said her eyes shining; "and so faryou have the decided advantage of a suitor who would carry her away fromus; but, Captain, you are a father, and the woman whom you marry should benot only a wife to you, but also a mother to your children; but for thatcare and responsibility my little Vi is, I fear, far too young. Indeed, mymother heart can ill brook the thought of her being so burdened in thevery morning of her life. "

"Nor should I be willing to burden her, my dear Mrs. Travilla, " he saidwith feeling; "she should never bear the lightest burden that I could saveher from. But, my dear madam, would my children be any better off if Ishould remain single? I think not, and I also think that should I marryanother while my heart is your daughter's, I should be doing very wrong. But I cannot; if I fail to win her I shall remain as I am to the end of mydays. "

"I trust not, " she said; "you may get over this and meet with some oneelse with whom you can be very happy. "

He shook his head very decidedly. "I feel that that is impossible. But howwas it in your own case, Mrs. Travilla? Mrs. Dinsmore is, I understand, but a few years older than yourself. "

"That is quite true, sir; and I know papa never let her take anyresponsibility in regard to me, but taught, trained, and cared for me inall respects himself; he was father and mother both to me, " she said witha lovely smile; "but you, my dear sir, are so situated that you could notfollow his example; you can neither stay at home with your children nortake them to sea with you. "

"True, but they can stay where they are quite as well if I am married asif I remain without a wife. I love them very dearly, Mrs. Travilla, andearnestly desire to do my whole duty to them, but I do not think it a partof that either to do without the dear little wife I covet, or to burdenher with cares unsuited to her tender years. Are you not willing to let mesettle this question of duty for myself?"

"I certainly have not the shadow of a right or inclination to attempt tosettle any question of duty for you, sir, " she answered with sweetgentleness, "but I must, I think, try to help my dear child to considersuch questions for herself. And with her, after all, must the decision ofthis matter remain. "

Both mother and lover waited with anxiety for that decision, and whilewaiting the captain wrote his letter, the mother busied herself with heraccustomed cares and duties as daughter, mother, mistress, and hostess, each heart lifting up silent petitions that the result might be for God'sglory and the best interests of all concerned. 

Elsie was not surprised that Violet did not join the family that eveningon her return from the Laurels. 

"She doubtless wants a talk with her mother first, " was her silent commenton learning that Vi had gone directly to that part of the house in whichthe private apartments of the family were situated, and presently, as allseparated for the night, she sought her own dressing-room, expecting tofind Violet waiting for her there. 

But the room was unoccupied; one swift glance revealed that fact, and alsoshowed her the box Violet had left on her toilet-table, and beside it somelittle token of love and remembrance from each of the other members of thefamily. 

A label on each told who was the giver, and breathed of tender affectionto her for whom it was prepared. 

She looked them over with glistening eyes, a heart full of gratitude forthe loves still left her, though sore with the thought, recalled by everyanniversary, of him who was gone, and a sweet and beautiful smile playingabout her lips. 

Violet's gift was the last to be taken up and examined. So life-like wasthe pictured face suddenly exposed to Elsie's view that it startled heralmost as if he had come in and stood by her side. The label told her itwas from Violet, but even without that she would have recognized it as herwork; and that it was so made it all the more precious to the widowedmother. 

She was gazing intently upon it, her lips quivering, the big tearsdropping fast down her cheeks, as Violet, with Capt. Raymond's letter inher hand, opened the door, came softly in, and glided noiselessly to herside. 

"Dearest mamma, " she murmured, stealing an arm about her mother's waist, "does it please you?"

"Nothing could be more like him! My darling, thank you a thousand times!"

"I painted almost entirely from memory, mamma, and it was emphatically alabor of love--love to you and to him. Oh, how sadly sweet it was to seethe dear face growing day by day under my hand!"

"Has your grandpa seen it?"

"Yes, mamma, he used to come in sometimes and watch me at my work. Hethinks as you do of the likeness. Ah, I hear his step!" and she hastenedto open the door for him. 

"I thought I should find you here, " he said, kissing her on both cheeks, then drawing her near the light and gazing with keen, loving scrutiny intothe blushing face. 

"Elsie daughter, " turning to her--"Ah!" as he perceived her emotion andtook note of the miniature in her hand, "is it not a speaking likeness?"

"Yes, papa, " she said in a trembling voice, going to him to lay her headon his breast while he clasped her in his arms, "but it has roused such anintense longing in my heart!

 "'Oh, for the touch of a vanished hand, And the sound of a voice that is still!"

"Dearest child!" he said tenderly, "the separation is only for time, and along eternity of reunion will follow. 'Our light affliction, which is butfor a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight ofglory. '"

"'But for a moment!'" she repeated. "Yes, it will seem like that when itis past, though now the road looks so long and lonely. "

"Ah, dearest!" he said, softly smoothing her hair, "remember that nearer, dearer Friend whose promise is, 'I will never leave thee, nor forsakethee. '"

Presently she lifted her head, wiped away her tears, and as her fatherreleased her from his arms, turned to her daughter with a tenderlyinterested and inquiring look. 

"What is it, my darling?" she asked, glancing at the letter in the younggirl's hand. 

Violet gave it to her, saying, with downcast eyes and blushing cheeks, "Ifound it on my dressing-table, mamma. It is from him--Capt. Raymond--and Ihave written a note in reply. "

"Shall I go away, Vi, and leave you and your mamma to your confidences?"Mr. Dinsmore asked playfully, putting an arm about each and looking withsmiling eyes from one to the other. 

"No, grandpa, please stay; you know I have no secrets from you, " Violetanswered, half hiding her face on his shoulder. 

"And are grandpa and I to read both epistles--yours and his?" asked hermother. 

"If you please, mamma. But mine is not to be given unless you bothapprove. "

The captain's was a straightforward, manly letter, renewing his offer witha hearty avowal of strong and deathless love, and replying to herobjections as he had already in talking with her mother and grandfather. 

Violet's answer did not contain any denial of a return of his affection;she simply thanked him for the honor done her, but said she did not feelold enough or wise enough for the great responsibilities of married life. 

"Rather non-committal, isn't it, little cricket?" was her grandfather'splayful comment. "It strikes me that you neither accept nor reject him. "

"Why, grandpa, " she said confusedly, "I thought it was a rejection. "

Mr. Dinsmore and his daughter had seated themselves near the table, onwhich a lamp was burning, and Violet knelt on a hassock at her mother'sfeet, half hiding her blushing face on her lap. 

"Ah, my little girl!" Elsie said, with playful tenderness, putting onehand under Vi's chin, and lifting the fair face to look into it with keen, loving scrutiny, "were I the captain, I should not despair; the citadel ofmy Vi's heart is half won. "

The cheeks were dyed with hotter blushes at that, but no denial came fromthe ruby lips. "Mamma, I do not want to marry yet for years, " she said, "and I think it will not be easy for any one to win me away from you. "

"But he says he will not take you away, " remarked her grandpa. 

"Are you on his side, grandpa?" asked Violet. 

"Only if your heart is, my dear child. " "And in that case I am on his sidetoo, " said her mother, "because I desire my little girl's happiness evenmore than her dear companionship as exclusively my own. "

"Except what belongs to her grandpa and guardian, " said Mr. Dinsmore, taking Vi's arm and gently drawing her to a seat upon his knee. 

Vi put her arms about his neck. "The dearest, kindest grandpa and guardianthat ever anybody had!" she said, giving him a kiss of ardent affection. "Well, if you, sir, and mamma are both on the captain's side, I suppose itwon't do for me to reject him. But you say my note isn't a rejection, sowill you please give it to him? And if he isn't satisfied to take it forno and let me alone on the subject, he may wait a year or two and seeif--if he still feels toward me as he does now, and perhaps--onlyperhaps--if he hasn't changed his mind and asks again----"

"You may say yes?" Mr. Dinsmore asked as she broke off in confusion. 

"Oh, grandpa, say what you think best! only don't make it too easy forhim, " she said, with an arch smile, but blushing deeply. 

"I think, " said Mr. Dinsmore, "I shall only give him your note without anyadditions of my own, and leave him to carry on further negotiations, ornot, as he sees fit. "

Capt. Raymond did not take Vi's answer as a decided rejection, and withintwenty-four hours had won from her an acknowledgment that she was notindifferent to him, and persuaded her to promise him her hand at somefar-off future day. All seemed well contented with the arrangement, andthe week that followed was a very delightful one to the lovers. 

In the mean time his Christmas gifts to his children had been received bythem with great joy. Especially did Max and Lulu rejoice over theopportunity now afforded them to open their hearts to their father andtell him all their grievances. 

He had written to both Mr. Fox and Mrs. Scrimp directing his gifts to bedelivered into the children's own hands without any examination, and neverto be taken from them. Also that they be allowed to spend their Christmastogether. 

So Max was permitted to go to Mrs. Scrimp's to spend the day with hissisters, and was well pleased to do so when he learned that that ladywould not be at home, having accepted an invitation to take her Christmasdinner elsewhere. 

Ann, who was left at home to look after the children, gave them anexcellent dinner, and Max, having found some money in his desk, cameprovided with candies. 

They compared presents, and spent some time over the books their fatherhad sent, then Max and Lulu decided that it would be best to write now totheir father, thanking him for his gifts and telling him all they had solong wanted him to know. 

Lulu compressed what she had to say into a few lines--her love, thanks, longing to see papa, Gracie's feebleness, and her own belief that it wasall because she did not get enough to eat; an acknowledgment that she wassaucy to "Aunt Beulah, " and sometimes helped herself to food, but excusingit on the plea that otherwise she too would be half starved; and that poorMax was often beaten and abused by Mr. Fox for just nothing at all. 

Max's letter was much longer, as he went more into detail, and was notfinished for several days. When it was he inclosed it and Lulu's, whichshe had given into his charge, in one of the envelopes that he had foundin his desk ready stamped and directed, and mailed it to his father. 

These letters reached Ion on New Year's morning. The captain read themwith deep concern, first to himself, then to Mrs. Travilla and Violet, asthey happened to be alone together in the parlor. 

The hearts of both ladies were deeply touched, and their eyes filled withtears as they listened to the story of the wrongs of the poor motherlesschildren. 

"Oh, captain, you will not leave them there where they are so ill used?"Vi said almost imploringly; "it breaks my heart to think of theirsufferings!"

"Don't let it distress you, my dear girl, " he replied soothingly; "weshould perhaps make some allowance for unintentional exaggeration. Thereare always two sides to a story, and we have but one here. "

"But told in a very straightforward way, " Elsie said with warmth. "Bothletters seem to me to bear the stamp of truth. Depend upon, it, captain, there is good ground for their complaints. "

"I fear so, " he said, "and am quite as anxious, my dear Mrs. Travilla, asyou could wish to set my dear children free from such tyranny; but whatcan I do? In obedience to orders, I must return to my vessel to-morrow andsail at once for a distant foreign port. I cannot go to see about mydarlings, and I know of no better place to put them. I shall, however, write to Mrs. Scrimp, directing her to have immediately the best medicaladvice for Gracie, and to follow it, feeding her as the doctor directs. Also always to give Lulu as much as she wants of good, plain, wholesomefood. I shall also write to Fox, giving very particular directions inregard to the management of my son. "

CHAPTER XV. 

 "Great minds, like heaven, are pleased in doing good. " --_Rowe_. 

Capt. Raymond's departure left Violet more lonely than his coming hadfound her, much as she was at that time missing her elder sister andbrother. 

They were to correspond, but as he would sail immediately for a foreignport, the exchange of letters between them could not, of course, be veryfrequent. 

Her mother, grandpa, and Grandma Rose all sympathized with her in thegrief of separation from the one who had become so dear, and exertedthemselves to cheer and comfort her. 

She and her mamma were bosom companions, and had many a confidential chatabout the captain and his poor children, the desire to rescue the latterfrom their tormentors and make them very happy growing in the hearts ofboth. 

As the captain had not enjoined secrecy upon them in regard to the lettersof Max and Lulu, and it was so much the habit of both to speak freely toMr. And Mrs. Dinsmore--especially the former--of all that interestedthemselves, it was not long before they too had heard, with deepcommiseration, the story of the unkind treatment to which Max, Lulu, andGracie were subjected. 

"We must find a way to be of service to them, " Mr. Dinsmore said. "Perhapsby instituting inquiries among our friends and acquaintances we may hearof some kind and capable person able and willing to take charge of them, and to whom their father would be willing to commit them. "

"I wish we could!" Elsie said with a sigh. "I think I can fully sympathizewith the poor things, for I have not forgotten how in my early childhood Iused to long and weep for the dear mamma who had gone to heaven, and mydear papa away in Europe. "

"A very poor sort of father he was then, very culpably neglectful of hislittle motherless child, " Mr. Dinsmore said in a remorseful tone, andregarding her with a tenderly affectionate look. 

"But afterward and to this day the very best of fathers, " she responded, smiling up at him. "Dear papa, what a debt of gratitude do I not owe toyou for all the love, care, and kindness shown by you to me and mychildren!"

"I feel fully repaid by the love and obedience I receive in return, " hesaid, seating himself on the sofa by Vi's side and softly stroking herhair. 

"Children and grandchildren all rise up and call you blessed, dear papa, "Elsie said, laying down the embroidery with which she had been busy, andcoming to his other side to put her arm about his neck and gaze lovinglyinto his eyes. 

A silent caress as he passed his arm around her waist and drew her closerto him was his only response. 

"Grandpa and mamma, " said Vi, "don't you think Capt. Raymond is to bepitied? Just think! he has neither father nor mother, brother nor sister!no near and dear one except his children; and from them he is separatedalmost all the time. "

"Yes, " said Mr. Dinsmore, "I do indeed! but am not sorry enough for him togive you up to him yet. I would not allow your mamma to marry till she wasseveral years older than you are now. "

"No, sir, " said Elsie, smiling, "I well remember that you utterly forbademe to listen to any declarations of love from man or boy, or to think ofsuch things if I could possibly help it. "

"Well, you lost nothing by waiting. "

"Lost! oh, no, no papa!" she cried, dropping her head upon his shoulder, while a scalding tear fell to the memory of the husband so highlyhonored, so dearly loved. 

"My dear child! my poor dear child!" her father said very low andtenderly, pressing her closer to his side; "the separation is only for thelittle while of time, the reunion will be for the endless ages ofeternity. "

"A most sweet and comforting thought, dear father, " she said, lifting herhead and smiling through her tears; "and with that glad prospect and somany dear ones left me, I am a very happy woman still. "

At that moment there was an interruption that for a long time put toflight all thought of effort on behalf of Capt. Raymond's children:Herbert and Harold came hurrying in with the news that a summons toRoselands had come for their grandpa, grandma, and mother. Mrs. Conly hadhad another stroke, was senseless, speechless, and apparently dying; alsothe shock of her seizure had prostrated her father, and Arthur consideredhim dangerously ill. 

The summons was promptly obeyed, and Violet left in the temporary chargeof children, house, and servants at Ion. 

Mrs. Conly died that night, but the old gentleman lingered for severalweeks, during which time his son was a constant attendant at his bedside, either Rose or Elsie almost always sharing the watch and labor of love. 

At length all was over: the spirit had returned to God who gave it, thebody had been laid to rest in the family vault. Mr. Dinsmore and his wifeand daughter went home to Ion, and life there fell back into its old quietgrooves. 

They spoke tenderly of the old grandfather, and kept his memory green intheir loving hearts, but he had gone to his grave like a shock of cornfully ripe, and they did not mourn over his death with the sadness theymight have felt had it been that of a younger member of the family. 

Toward spring Capt. Raymond's letters became urgent for a speedy marriage. He expected to be ordered home in June and allowed a rest of some weeks ormonths. Then he might be sent to some distant quarter of the globe, andnot see his native land again for a long while, perhaps years. Under suchcircumstances, how could he wait for his little wife? Would not she andher mother and grandfather consent to let him claim her in June?

The tender hearts of Elsie and Violet could not stand out against hisappeals. Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore felt for him too, and at length consent wasgiven, and preparations for the marriage were set on foot. 

Then the talk about the captain's children was renewed, and Vi said, withtears in her sweet azure eyes, "Mamma, I do feel like being a mother tothem--especially for his sake--it only I were old enough and wise enoughto command their respect and obedience. Ah, mamma, if only you could havethe training of them! Yet I could not bear to have you so burdened. "

"I have been thinking of it, Vi, dear, " Elsie said; "that perhaps we couldgive them a happy home here, and help them to grow up to good and nobleman and womanhood, if their father would like to delegate his authority toyour grandpa and you and me. I think we would not abuse it, but without it'twould be quite useless to undertake the charge. "

"Dear mamma!" cried Vi, her eyes shining, "how good, how kind, andunselfish you always are!"

Mr. Dinsmore, entering the room at the moment, asked playfully, "What isthe particular evidence of that patent at this time, Vi?"

She answered his question by repeating what her mother had just said. 

"I have a voice in that, " he remarked, with, a grave shake of the head. "Ido not think, daughter, that I can allow you to be so burdened. "

She rose, went to him where he stood, and putting her arms about his neck, her eyes gazing fondly into his, "Dear papa, " she said, "you know I willdo nothing against your wishes, but I am sure you will not hinder me fromdoing any work the Master sends me?"

"No, dear child, you are more His than mine, and I dare not, would notinterfere if He has sent you work; but the question is, has He done so?"

"If you please, papa, we will take a little time to consider thatquestion; shall we not?"

"Yes, " he said, "it need not be decided to-day. The right training andeducating of those children would certainly be a good work, and could itbe so managed that I could do all the hard and unpleasant part of it----"he said musingly. 

"Oh no! no! my dear father, " she hastily interposed, as he paused, leavinghis sentence unfinished, "the work should be mine if undertaken at all. "

"Perhaps, " he said, "it might be tried for a short time as a mereexperiment, to be continued only if the children do not proveungovernable, or likely to be an injury to our own; for our first duty isto them. "

"Yes indeed, papa!" responded his daughter earnestly. "And nothing can bereally decided upon until Capt. Raymond comes. He may have other plans forhis children. "

"Yes, it is quite possible he may think best to place Max and Lulu atschool somewhere. "

"But poor little sick Gracie!" said Violet, the tears springing to hereyes. "Mamma, I do want to have her to love and pet, and I think if we hadher here with our good old mammy to nurse her, and Cousin Arthur to attendher, she might grow to be strong and healthy. "

"Dear child! I am glad to hear you say that!" said Elsie, "for it is justas I have been thinking and feeling. My heart yearns over the poormotherless children, and that little feeble one very especially. "

Capt. Raymond was deeply touched when, shortly after his arrival at Ion toclaim his bride, he learned what was in her heart and her mother's towardhis children. 

After due deliberation it was settled that the experiment should be tried. Arrangements were made for the whole family to spend the summer in twoadjoining cottages at a lovely seaside resort on the New England coast, Mrs. Dinsmore to be mistress of one house, Violet of the other, while thecaptain could be with her, which he had reason to expect would be forseveral months. 

In the fall he would probably be ordered away; then Violet would return toIon with her mother and the rest of the family, taking his children withher, if Mr. Dinsmore and Elsie should still feel willing to take them incharge. He had a high opinion of Dr. Conly's skill as a physician, andwas extremely anxious to place Gracie under his care. Also he thought thatto no other persons in the world would he so joyfully commit his childrento be trained up and educated as to Mr. Dinsmore, his daughter andgranddaughter, and he was more than willing to delegate to them his ownauthority during his absences from home. 

The marriage would take place at Ion, the bride and groom start northwardthe same day on a wedding tour. On the return trip to the spot which wasto be their home for the summer, they would call for the captain'schildren. 

In the mean time the others would complete their arrangements for theseason, journey northward also, and take possession of their seasidecottage. 

It was a sore disappointment to the whole family at Ion, but especially toViolet and her brother, that Elsie Leland could not be present at thewedding. Lester's health was almost entirely restored, but he felt itimportant to him as an artist to prolong his stay in Italy for at leastsome months. 

Edward had remained with them through the winter, had left them in April, intending to make an extensive European tour before returning to hisnative land, but would surely hasten home for Vi's wedding if his mother'ssummons reached him in season. 

CHAPTER XVI. 

 "Here love his golden shafts employs, here lights His constant lamp, and waves his purple wings. " --_Rowly_. 

It was Saturday evening. Edward Travilla, travelling leisurely throughFrance, had stopped in a village not many miles from Paris, to spend theSabbath. 

Having taken his supper and afterward a stroll through the village, heretired to his room to read and answer a budget of letters just receivedfrom America. 

The first he opened was from his mother. It told of Violet's approachingmarriage and urged his immediate return that he might be present at theceremony. 

"We are all longing to see you, " she wrote, "your mother more, I believe, than any one else. If you have not had enough of Europe yet, my dear boy, you can go back again soon, if you wish, perhaps taking some of us withyou. And Vi will be sorely disappointed if you are not present on theoccasion so important to her. "

"I must certainly go, " he mused, laying down the letter. "I should notlike to miss it. Vi will be as lovely a bride as Elsie was. I have neverbeen able to decide which of the two is the more beautiful; but I wonderthat she is allowed to marry so young--just nineteen! I should have hadher wait a year or two at least. "

There was a step in the hall without, a rap on the door. 

"Come in, " Edward said, and Ben appeared. 

"Marse Ed'ard, dey tells me dars a 'Merican gentleman bery sick in de roomcross de hall hyar; gwine ter die, I reckon. "

"Indeed!" Edward said with concern. "I should be glad to be of assistanceto him. Is he quite alone, Ben? I mean has he no friends with him?"

"I b'lieves dar's a lady long wid him, Marse Ed'ard, but I mos'ly has toguess 'bout de half ob what dese Frenchers say. "

"You don't know the name, Ben?"

"No, sah, couldn't make it out de way dey dispronounces it. But Iunderstands, sah, dat dese folks--meanin' de sick gentleman and delady--and we's de only 'Mericans in de town. "

"Then here, Ben, take my card to the lady and ask if I can be of serviceto them. Say that I am a countryman of theirs and shall be most happy todo anything in my power. "

Ben came back the next moment with a face full of grave concern. "MarseEd'ard, " he said, "it's Mistah Love and Miss Zoe. "

"Is it possible!" cried Edward, starting up. "And is he really so veryill?"

"Berry sick, Marse Ed'ard, looks like he's dyin' sho nuff. "

"Oh, dreadful! And no one with him but his daughter?"

"Dat's all, sah. De young lady come to de do', and when I give her decard, she look at it and den at me an' say, 'O Ben! I thought we hadn't afriend in all dis country! and papa so very sick! Please tell Mr. Travillawe'll be glad to see him. '"

Edward went to them at once, bidding Ben remain near at hand lest heshould be needed to do some errand. 

The Loves had remained in Rome for a few weeks after Elsie's marriage, during which Edward had met them frequently, his liking for the father andadmiration of the daughter's beauty and sprightliness increasing withevery interview. 

He had found Mr. Love a sensible, well-informed Christian gentleman. Thedaughter was a mere child--only fifteen--extremely pretty and engaging, but evidently too much petted and indulged, her father's spoiled darling. 

Edward knew that she was an only child and motherless, and was muchshocked and grieved to hear that she was likely to lose her only remainingparent. 

Zoe herself opened the door in answer to his gentle rap. 

"O Mr. Travilla!" she said, giving him both hands in her joy at seeing afriendly face in this hour of sore distress, but with tears streaming downher cheeks, "I am so glad you have come! Papa is so sick, and I don't knowwhat to do, or where to turn. "

"My poor child! we must hope for the best, " Edward said, pressing thelittle hands compassionately in his. "You must call upon me for help andlet me do whatever I can for you and your poor father, just as if I werehis son and your brother. "

"Oh, thank you! you are very kind. Will you come now and speak to him?"and she led the way to the bedside. 

"Travilla!" the sick man exclaimed, feebly holding out his hand. "ThankGod for sending you here!"

Edward took the offered hand in his, saying with an effort to steady histones, "I am glad indeed to be here, sir, if you can make use of me, butvery sorry to see you so ill. "

The hand he held was cold and clammy, and death had plainly set his sealupon the pale face on the pillow. 

"Shall I send Ben for a physician?" Edward asked. 

"Thank you. I have had one; he will be here again presently, but can dolittle for me, " the sick man answered, speaking slowly and with frequentpauses. "Zoe, my darling, go into the next room for a moment, dear. Iwould be alone with Mr. Travilla for a little while. "

The weeping girl obeyed at once, her father following her with eyes thatwere full of anguish. 

"'Leave thy fatherless children, I will preserve them alive, '" repeatedEdward in low tones, tremulous with deep sympathy. 

How this scene brought back that other, but a year and a half ago, whenhis own father lay wrestling with the king of terrors!

"Yes, yes, precious promise! for she will soon be that, my poor darling!"groaned the sufferer. "That I must leave her alone in the world, withoutone near relative, alone in a strange land, penniless too, oh this is thebitterness of death!"

"I will be a friend to her, sir, " Edward said with emotion, "and so I amsure will my mother and grandfather when they learn her sad story. Tell meyour wishes in regard to her, and I will do my best to see them carriedout. "

As briefly as possible, for his strength was waning, Mr. Love made Edwardacquainted with the state of his affairs. He had retired from business theprevious year with a comfortable competence, and being somewhat out ofhealth, had undertaken a European tour with the hope of benefit, if notentire recovery. 

The improvement had been very decided for a time, but within the last fewdays distressing news had reached him from America; news of the failure, through the extensive peculation of one of its officers, of a bank inwhich the bulk of his savings had been invested. 

He had other property, but as the law made each stockholder liable fordouble the amount of his stock, that too was swallowed up and he thusutterly ruined. 

The terrible shock of the disaster had so increased his malady that it hadbecome mortal; he was too utterly prostrated to rally from it, and knewthat his hours on earth were numbered. 

He had a little ready money with him, enough he thought to pay his funeralexpenses and Zoe's passage back to her native land, but such a mere childas she was, always used to depending upon him to see to all their affairs, she would not know how to manage, and would probably be robbed of thelittle she had. And even if she should arrive safely in her own country, what was to become of her then? Without means, no one upon whom she hadany claim for assistance, and too young and ignorant to do anything toearn her own living. 

Edward was deeply moved by the sad recital. "My dear Mr. Love, " he said, "make yourself quite easy about Miss Zoe. I will attend to all thesematters about which you have spoken. I am about to return home myself, andwill be her companion and protector on the voyage. Nor shall she want forfriends or any needed assistance after we arrive. "

"God bless you! you have lifted a heavy load from my heart!" faltered thedying father, with a look of deep gratitude. "You are young, sir, but Ican trust you fully. There are few older men whom I would as willinglytrust. "

"And you can die in peace, trusting in the Saviour of sinners?"

"Yes; He is all my hope, all my trust. "

"I have been told there is a Protestant minister in the village. Shall Isend Ben for him?"

"Yes, thank you; I should be glad to see him, though I feel that he or anyman could be of little assistance to me now, if the work of repentance andfaith had been left for this hour. "

Edward went to the door, called Ben and sent him on the errand, thencoming back to the bedside, "Mr. Love, " he said, flushing and speakingwith some little hesitation, "will you give your daughter to me if she iswilling?"

"Give her to you?" the sick man asked as if not fully comprehending. 

"Yes, sir; give her to me to wife, and I will cherish her to life's end. "

There was a flash of joy in the dying eyes, quickly succeeded by one ofhesitation and doubt. "Is it love or compassion only that moves you tothis most generous offer?" he asked. 

"It is both, " Edward said. "I have admired and felt strongly attracted toher from the first day of our acquaintance, though I did not recognize itas love until now. We are both so young that I should not have spoken yetbut for the peculiar circumstances in which we are placed; but I truly, dearly love the sweet girl and earnestly desire to be given the right toprotect, provide for and cherish her as my dearest earthly treasure solong as we both shall live. "

"But your friends, your relatives?"

"I think my mother would not object, if she knew all. But I am of age, sohave an undoubted right to act for myself even in so vitally important amatter. "

"Then if my darling loves you, let me see you united before I die. "

At this moment the door of the adjoining room opened and Zoe's voice washeard in imploring, tearful accents: "Mayn't I come back now? O papa, Icannot stay away from you any longer!"

Edward hastened to her, and taking both her hands in his, "Dear Miss Zoe, "he said, "I love you, I feel for you, I want to make you my very own, ifyou can love me in return, that I may have the right to take care of you. Will you be my dear little wife? will you marry me now, to-night, thatyour father may be present and feel that he will not leave you alone andunprotected?"

She looked up at him in utter surprise, then seeing the love and pity inhis face, burst into a passion of grief. 

"Leave me! papa going to leave me!" she cried. "Oh, no, no! I cannot bearit! He must, he will be better soon! O Mr. Travilla, say that he will!"

"No, my darling!" replied a quivering voice from the bed, "I shall notlive to see the morning light, and if you love Mr. Travilla tell him soand let me see you married before I die. "

"Can you, do you love me, dear little Zoe?" Edward asked in tenderesttones, passing his arm about her waist. 

"Yes, " she said half under her breath, with a quick glance up into hisface, then hid her own on his breast, sobbing, "Oh, take care of me! forI'll be all alone in the wide world when dear papa is gone. "

"I will, " he said, pressing her closer, softly pushing back the fair hairfrom the white temple and touching his lips to it again and again. "Godhelping me, I will be to you a tender, true, and loving husband. "

"Come here, Zoe, darling, " her father said, "our time grows short;" andEdward led her to the bedside. 

"O papa, papa!" she sobbed, falling on her knees and laying her wet cheekto his. 

Edward, with heart and eyes full to overflowing, moved softly away to thefarther side of the room, that in this last sad interview the constraintof even his presence might not be felt. 

Low sobs and murmured words of tenderness and fatherly counsel reached hisear, and his heart went up in silent prayer for both the dying one and herjust about to be so sorely bereaved. 

Presently footsteps approached the door opening into the passage, a gentletap followed, and he admitted the minister who had been sent for, beckoning Ben to come in also. 

A few whispered words passed between Edward and the minister, then bothdrew near the bed. 

A brief talk with the dying man, in which he professed himself ready andwilling to depart, trusting in the atoning blood and imputed righteousnessof Christ, a short fervent prayer for him and his child, then Edward, leaning over the still kneeling, weeping Zoe, whispered, "Now, dearest!"

The tear-dimmed eyes looked up inquiringly. 

"We are going to belong to each other, are we not?" he said very low andtenderly. "The minister is ready now to speak the words that will make usone for the rest of our lives. "

Without speaking she rose, wiping away her tears, put her hand within hisarm, and the ceremony began. 

When it was over Edward took her in his arms, saying softly as he pressedhis lips again and again to her forehead, her cheek, her lips, "My wife, my own dear little wife!"

"My child! my darling!" murmured the father, feebly reaching for her hand. 

Edward took it and put it into his. 

The dying fingers closed feebly over it. "Lord, I thank thee for thisgreat mercy! 'Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace. '"

The words came low and faintly from the lips already growing cold indeath, a gasp for breath followed, and all was still, no sound in theroom but Zoe's wild weeping, while with silent caresses Edward held her tohis heart. 

They laid him to rest in the nearest Protestant cemetery, for such hadbeen his request. 

In answer to a question from her young husband, Zoe said, "No, no. I shallnot wear mourning! I detest it, and so did papa. He made me promise Iwould not wear it for him. I shall dress in white whenever it is suitable. That is if you like it, " she added quickly. "Oh, I shall try to please youalways, dear Edward, for you are all I have in the world, and so, so dearand good to me!" and her head went down upon his breast. 

"My darling little wife!" he said, holding her close, "you are so dear andlovely in my eyes that I find you beautiful in everything you wear. Yet Iam glad you do not care to assume that gloomy dress. "

There was no time to be lost if they would catch the next steamer forAmerica, which Edward felt it important to do; so within an hour after thefuneral they were en route for Paris, and that night found them on board, beginning their homeward voyage. 

Zoe in her deep grief shrank from contact with strangers and clung to heryoung husband. So they kept themselves much apart from theirfellow-passengers. Edward devoting himself to Zoe, soothing her with fondendearing words and tender caresses, and every day their hearts were moreclosely knit together. 

But she seemed half afraid to meet his kindred. 

"What if they dislike and despise me!" she said. "O Edward, if they do, will you turn against me?"

"Never, my love, my darling! Have I not promised to love and cherish youto life's end? But if you knew my sweet mother, you would have no fear ofher. She is a tender mother, and her kind heart is large enough to takeyou in among the rest of her children. You saw my sister Elsie inRome--would you fear her?"

"Oh, no; she was so lovely and sweet!"

"But not more so than our mother; they are wonderfully alike, only mammais, of course, some years the older. Yet I have often heard it remarkedthat she looks very little older than her eldest daughter. "

He talked a great deal to her of the different members of the Ion family, trying to make her acquainted with them all and their manner of life, which he described minutely. 

The picture he drew of mutual love and helpfulness between parents andchildren, brothers and sisters, was a charming one to Zoe, who had had alonely, motherless childhood. 

"Ah, what a happy life is before me, Edward!" she said, "if only they willlet me be one of them! But whether they will or no, I shall have you tolove me! You will always be my husband and I your own little wife!"

"Yes, darling, yes, indeed!" he answered, pressing the slight, girlishfigure closer to his side. 

CHAPTER XVII. 

 "Benedict the married man. " --_Shakspeare_. 

Violet's wedding-day was drawing near and Edward had not been heard from, still they hoped he was on his way home and would yet arrive in season. Each day they looked for a telegram saying what train would bring him totheir city, but none came. 

Edward had not written because a letter would travel no faster thanthemselves, and did not telegraph because so little could be said in thatway. All things considered, it seemed as well to take his mother and therest entirely by surprise. 

He had no fear that his little wife would meet with other than a kindreception, astounded as doubtless they would be to learn that he had one. But he would have the surprise come upon them all at home, where nostranger eye would witness the meeting; therefore sent no warning of hiscoming lest some one of them should meet him at the depôt. 

Yet the first object that met his eye on turning about from assisting Zoeto alight from the train, was the Ion family carriage, with Solon standingat the horses' heads. 

"Ki! Marse Ed'ard, you's here sho nuff!" cried the man, grinning withsatisfaction. 

"Yes, Solon, " Edward said, shaking hands with him. "Who came in with you?"

"Nobody, sah. You wasn't spected particular, kase you didn't send no word. But Miss Elsie tole me fotch de kerridge anyhow, an' mebbe you mout behere. "

"So I am, Solon, and my wife with me, " presenting Zoe, who timidly heldout her little gloved hand. 

Solon took it respectfully, gazing at her in wide-eyed and open-mouthedwonder. "Ki! Marse Ed'ard, you don' say you's ben an' gwine an' gotmarried! Why dere's weddin's an' weddin's in de family!"

"So it seems, Solon, " laughed Edward, putting Zoe into the carriage andtaking his place beside her, "but as I am older than Miss Vi, my turnshould come before hers. All well at Ion?"

"Yes, sah, an' mighty busy wid de necessary preparations for Miss Wilet'sweddin'. "

"What an elegant, comfortable, easy-rolling carriage!" remarked Zoe, leaning back against the cushions, "it's a pleasant change from the cars. "

"I am glad you find it so, dear, " Edward responded, gazing upon her withfond, admiring eyes. 

"Yes, but--O Edward, how will I be received?" she cried, creeping closerto him and leaning her head on his shoulder. "I can hardly help wishing Icould just be alone with you always. "

"Don't be afraid, dearest, " he said, putting his arm round her and kissingher tenderly again and again. "When you know them all you will be very farfrom wishing that. "

The whole family were gathered upon the veranda when the carriage droveup. As it stopped, the door was thrown open, and Edward sprang out. Therewas a general exclamation, of surprise and delight, a simultaneousspringing forward to give him an affectionate, joyous greeting; then awondering murmur and exchange of inquiring glances, as he turned to handout a slight girlish figure, and drawing her hand within his arm, came upthe veranda steps. 

Elsie stood nearest of all the waiting group, heart and eyes full ofjoyous emotion at sight of the handsome face and manly form so like hisfather's. 

"Darling mother!" he exclaimed, throwing his free arm about her and givingher an ardent kiss. Then drawing forward the blushing, trembling Zoe. "Mylittle wife, mother dear you will love her now for my sake, and soon forher own. She is all ours--alone in the world but for us. "

Before the last words had left his lips Zoe felt herself folded in atender embrace, while the sweetest of voices said, "Dear child! you arealone no longer. I will be a true mother to you--my Edward's wife--and youshall be one of my dear daughters. "

A gentle, loving kiss accompanied the words, and all Zoe's fears were putto flight; glad tears rained down her cheeks as she clung about the neckof her new-found mother. 

"Oh, I love you already, " she sobbed. 

Mrs. Dinsmore next embraced the little bride with a kind, "Welcome to Ion, my dear. "

Then Mr. Dinsmore took her in his arms, saying, with a kiss and a look ofkeen but kindly scrutiny into the blushing face, "Edward has given us asurprise, but a very pretty and pleasant-looking one. I am your grandpa, my dear. "

"Oh, I am glad! I never had a grandpa before. But you hardly look oldenough, sir, " she said, smiling, while the blush deepened on her cheek. 

The others crowded round; each had a kiss and kind word of welcome for heras well as for Edward. 

Then the news of the arrival having spread through the house, the servantscame flocking about them, eager to see and shake hands with "Marse Ed'ard"and his bride. 

Zoe went through it all with easy grace, but Elsie noted that her cheekwas paling and her figure drooping with weariness. 

"She is tired, Edward; we will take her to your apartments, where she canlie down and rest, " she said. "All this excitement is very trying afterher long and fatiguing journey. You both should have some refreshment too. What shall it be?"

"Thank you, mamma; I will consult her when I get her up there, then ringand order it, " Edward said, putting his arm round Zoe's waist and halfcarrying her up the stairs, his mother leading the way. 

"There, Zoe, what think you of your husband's bachelor quarters?" he askedgayly, as he deposited her in an easy-chair, took off her hat, and stoodlooking fondly down at her, Elsie on the other side, looking at her toowith affectionate interest. 

"Oh, lovely!" cried Zoe, glancing about upon her luxurious surroundings. "I am sure I shall be very happy here with you, Edward, " with a fond lookup into his face; then turning toward Elsie, she added timidly, "and thissweet mother. "

"That is right, dear child, " Elsie said, bending down to kiss her again, "call me mother or mamma, as Edward does, and never doubt your welcome tomy heart and home. Now I shall leave you to rest, and Edward must see thatall your wants are supplied. "

"O Edward, how sweet, how dear, and how beautiful she is!" cried Zoe, asthe door closed on her mother-in-law. 

"Just as I told you, love, " he said, caressing her. "She takes you to herheart and home without even waiting to inquire how I came to marry inhaste without her knowledge or approval. "

"Or asking who I am or where I came from. But you will tell her everythingas soon as you can?"

"Yes; I shall wait only long enough to see you eat something and lyingdown for a nap, so that you will not miss me while I have my talk withher. "

Zoe, in this her first appearance among them, had produced a favorableimpression upon all her new relatives; but the uppermost feeling witheach, from the grandfather down, was one of profound astonishment thatEdward had taken so serious a step without consulting those to whom he hadhitherto yielded a respectful and loving obedience. 

Elsie could not fail to be pained to find her dearly loved father andherself so treated by one of her cherished darlings, yet tried to put thefeeling aside and suspend her judgment until Edward had been given anopportunity to explain. 

The younger children gathered about her, with eager questioning as sherejoined them in the veranda. 

"I can tell you nothing yet, dears, " she answered in her accustomed sweetand gentle tones, "but no doubt we shall know all about it soon. I thinkshe is a dear little girl whom we shall all find it easy to love. We willdo all we can to make her happy and at home among us, shall we not?"

"Yes, mamma, yes indeed!" they all said. 

Mr. Dinsmore rose, and motioning to his wife and daughter to follow himwent to the library. 

Elsie read grave displeasure in his countenance before he opened his lips. 

"Dear papa, do not be angry with my boy, " she said pleadingly, going tohim where he stood, and putting her arms about his neck. "Shall we notwait until we have heard his story?"

"I shall try to suspend my judgment for your sake, daughter, " Mr. Dinsmoreanswered, stroking her hair caressingly, "but I cannot help feeling thatEdward seems to have strangely failed in the loving respect and obediencehe should have shown to such a mother as his. He has taken very promptadvantage of his arrival at his majority. "

"Yet perhaps with good reason, papa, " she returned, still beseechingly, her eyes filling with tears. 

"We will not condemn him unheard, " he answered, his tones softening, "andif he has made a mistake by reason of failing to seek the advice andapproval of those who so truly desire his happiness, it is he himself whomust be the greatest sufferer thereby. "

"Yes, " she returned with a sigh, "even a mother's love is powerless tosave her children from the consequences of their own follies and sins. "

Edward, scarcely less desirous to make his explanation than his mother wasto hear it, hastened in search of her the moment he had seen Zoecomfortably established upon a sofa in his dressing-room. 

He found her in the library with his grandfather evidently awaiting hiscoming. They were seated together upon a sofa. 

"Dearest mother, " Edward said, dropping upon his knees by her side andclasping her in his arms, "how can I ever thank you enough for yourkindness this day to me and my darling! I fear I must seem to you andgrandpa an ungrateful wretch; but when you know all, you will not, Itrust, blame me quite so severely. "

"We are not blaming you, my dear boy, we are waiting to hear first whatyou have to say for yourself, " Elsie answered, laying her hand fondly uponhis head. "Sit here by my side while you tell it, " she added, making roomfor him on the sofa. 

He made his story brief, yet kept nothing back. 

His hearers were deeply moved as he repeated what Mr. Love had told him ofthe lonely and forlorn condition in which he must leave his petted onlychild, and went on to describe the hasty marriage and the death scene, soimmediately following. Their kind hearts yearned over the little orphanedbride, and they exonerated Edward from all blame for the part he acted inthe short, sad drama. 

"Cherish her tenderly, my dear boy, " his mother said, with tears in hersoft eyes, "you are all, everything to her, and must never let her wantfor love or tenderest care. "

"Mother, " he answered in moved tones, "I shall try to be to my little wifejust the husband my father was to you. "

"That is all any one could ask, my son, " she returned, the tears coursingdown her cheeks. 

"Do not expect too much of her, Edward, " Mr. Dinsmore said. "She is amere child, a petted and spoiled one, I presume, from what you have toldus, and if she should prove wayward and at times unreasonable, be verypatient and forbearing with her. "

"I trust I shall, grandpa, " he answered. "I cannot expect her to be quitethe woman she would have made under my mother's training; but she is youngenough to profit by mamma's sweet teachings and example even yet. I findher very docile and teachable, very affectionate, and desirous to be anddo all I would have her. "

Zoe came down for the evening simply but tastefully attired in white, looking very sweet and fair. She was evidently disposed to be on friendlyterms with her new relatives, yet clung with a pretty sort of shyness toher young husband, who perceived it with delight, regarding her ever andanon with fond, admiring eyes. 

It excited no jealousy in mother or sisters. Such an emotion was quiteforeign to Elsie's nature and found small place in the heart of any one ofher children. 

Violet, spite of the near approach of her own nuptials, was sufficientlyat leisure from herself to give time and thought to this new sister, making her feel that she was so esteemed, and winning for herself a largeplace in Zoe's heart. 

Indeed all exerted themselves to make Zoe fully aware that they consideredher quite one of the family. That very evening she was taken with Edwardto Vi's room to look at the trousseau, told of all the arrangements forthe wedding and the summer sojourn at the North, and made the recipient ofmany handsome presents from Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore, Elsie, and Violet. 

But for her recent sad bereavement she would have been a very happy littlewoman indeed. As it was she was bright and cheerful when with the family, but had occasional paroxysms of grief when alone with Edward, in which shewept bitterly upon his breast, he soothing her with tenderest caresses andwords of endearment. 

Violet's wedding was strictly private, only near relatives being present;but in accordance with the wishes of the whole family, she was richlyattired in white silk, orange blossoms, and costly bridal veil. 

Zoe, leaning on Edward's arm, watched her through the ceremony withadmiring eyes, more than half regretting that the haste of her ownmarriage had precluded the possibility of so rich and becoming a bridaldress for herself--a thought which she afterward expressed to Edward inthe privacy of their own apartments. "Never mind, my sweet, " he said, holding her close to his heart "I couldn't love you any better if you hadgiven yourself to me in the grandest of wedding-dresses. "

"How nice in you to say that!" she exclaimed, laying her head on hisbreast and gazing fondly up into his face. "Didn't Captain Raymond lookhandsome in his uniform?"

"Yes, indeed; don't you think I have as much reason to envy his appearanceas a groom as you Vi's as a bride?"

"No, indeed!" she cried indignantly, "he's not half so nice as you are! Iwouldn't exchange with her for all the world!"

"Thank you; that's a very high compliment, I think; for I greatly admiremy new brother-in-law, " Edward said, with a gleeful laugh, and repeatinghis caresses. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

 "My cake is dough. " --_Shakespeare_. 

It was a warm afternoon late in June. 

"There! I'm done with lessons for a while anyway, and glad of it too!"exclaimed Lulu Raymond, coming into Mrs. Scrimp's sitting-room anddepositing her satchel of school-books upon the table. 

"So am I, Lu, for now you'll have time to make that new dress for mydollie, won't you?" Gracie said languidly, from the sofa where she lay. 

"Yes, little pet, and ever so many other things. But oh dear! holidaysaren't much after all when you can't go anywhere or have any fun. I dowonder when we'll see papa again. "

"Pretty soon, Lu, " cried a boyish voice in tones of delight, and turningquickly she found Max at the window, wearing a brighter face than he hadshown her for many a day, and holding up a bulky letter. 

"O Max!" she cried, "is it from papa?"

"Yes; and I'm coming in to read it to you if you and Gracie are alone. "

"Yes, we are; Aunt Beulah's gone out calling and Ann's busy in thekitchen. "

"Then here I am!" he said, vaulting lightly in through the window. 

Lulu laughed admiringly. "I'd like to try that myself, " she said. 

"Oh, don't, Lu!" said Gracie, "Aunt Beulah would scold you like anything. "

"Let her scold! who cares!" returned Lulu with a scornful toss of thehead, while Max, who had gone to the side of Gracie's sofa, stooped overher, and softly patting the thin pale cheek, asked how she felt to-day. 

"'Bout the same as usual, Maxie, " she said, with a languid smile. 

"O Max, hurry and tell us what papa says in the letter!" cried Luluimpatiently. "Is it good news?"

"First-rate, girls! couldn't be better! He's coming here next week andgoing to take us all away with him!"

"Oh! oh! oh! how delightful!" cried Lulu, clapping her hands and dancingabout the room, while Grace clasped her hands in ecstasy, saying, "Oh, Iam so glad!"

"Come, Lu, sit down here beside us and be quiet, " said Max, seatinghimself beside Grace on the sofa, and motioning toward a low rocking-chairnear at hand. "I'm going to read the letter aloud, and then I havesomething to show you. "

Lulu took possession of the rocking-chair, folded her hands in her lap, and Max began. 

The letter was written from Saratoga, where the captain and his bride hadpaused for a few days on their wedding tour, and was addressed to allthree of his children. 

He told them of his marriage, described Violet, her mother, and the lifeat Ion in glowing terms, spoke very highly of Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore andthe younger members of the family, then told of their kind offer to sharetheir happy home with his children if they should prove themselves goodand obedient. 

But here Lulu interrupted the reading with a passionate outburst. "Astep-mother! I won't have her! Papa had no business to go and give her tous!"

"Why, Lu!" exclaimed Max, "of course he had a right to get married if hewanted to! And I'm very glad he did, for I'm sure they must be much nicerfolks to live with than Mr. Fox and Mrs. Scrimp. "

"Just like a silly boy to talk so!" returned Lulu, with a mixture of angerand scorn in her tones. "Step-mothers are always hateful and cross andabuse the children and won't let their father love them any more, and----"

"Now who's been telling you such lies, sis?" interrupted Max. "There arebad ones and good ones among them, the same as among other classes ofpeople. And papa says his new wife is sweet and kind and good toeverybody. And if she loves him won't she want to be good to his children?I should think so, I'm sure. Now let me read the rest of his letter. "

In that the captain went on to tell of the cottages by the sea engaged forthe summer, and that thither he and Violet purposed to go the next week, taking his children with them. He wound up with some words of fatherlyaffection and hope that brighter days than they had known for a long timewere now in store for them. 

There was a postscript from Violet: "I am longing to see the dear childrenof my husband, especially poor, little sick Gracie. I am sure we shalllove each other very much for his dear sake. "

"There now, Lu, you see she means to be kind to us, " was Max's satisfiedcomment, as he refolded the missive and put it back into the envelope. 

Lulu was one who never liked to retreat from a position she had oncetaken. "Oh, it's easy to talk, " she said, "acting's another thing. I'm notgoing to be caught with chaff. "

"See here!" said Max, showing a photograph. 

"Oh, what a pretty lady!" cried Gracie, holding out an eager hand for it. 

Max gave it to her, and Lulu sprang up and bent over her to get a goodview of it also. 

"Who is it?" she asked. 

"Isn't she pretty? isn't she perfectly beautiful, and sweet-looking as shecan be?" said Max, ignoring the question. 

"Yes, she's just lovely; but why don't you say who she is, if you know?"

"She's papa's new wife, the new mamma you are determined to believe isgoing to be so hateful. "

"I'm sure she won't. She does look so sweet, I just love her already!"Gracie said. 

Lulu, too proud to retract, yet strongly drawn toward the possessor of sosweet and lovely a countenance as was pictured there, kept silence, gazingintently upon the photograph which Gracie still held. 

"Whose is it, Max?" asked the latter. 

"Mine I suppose, though papa doesn't say; but we'll find out when hecomes. "

"Oh, I'm so glad, so glad he's coming soon! Aren't you, Maxie?"

"I never was gladder in my life!" cried Max. "And just think how nice togo and live by the sea all summer! There'll be lots of fun boating andbathing and fishing!"

"Oh, yes!" chimed in Lulu, "and papa is always so kind about taking us toplaces and giving us a good time. "

"But I can't have any!" sighed Gracie from her couch. 

"Yes, papa will manage it somehow, " said Max; "and the sea air and plentyto eat will soon make you ever so much stronger. "

They chatted on for some time, growing more and more delighted with theprospect before them; then Max said he must go. 

He wanted to take the photograph with him, but generously yielded toGracie's entreaties that it might be left with her till he came again. 

She and Lulu were still gazing upon it and talking together of theoriginal--Max having gone--when Mrs. Scrimp came in, looking greatly vexedand perturbed. 

She too had received a letter from Capt. Raymond that day, telling of hismarriage and his intentions in regard to his children; directing also thatthey and their luggage should be in waiting at a hotel near the depôt ofthe town at the hour of a certain day of the coming week when he and hisbride expected to arrive by a train from the West. 

There would be a two hours' detention there while they waited for thetrain that was to carry them to their final destination, which would allowtime for an interview between the captain and herself. 

The news was entirely unexpected and very unwelcome to Mrs. Scrimp. Shewould have much preferred to keep the little girls, for the sake of thegain they were to her and a real affection for Gracie; also because ofhaving neglected to follow out the captain's directions in regard tothem--Gracie in particular--she felt no small perturbation at the prospectof meeting and being questioned by him. 

As was not unusual she vented her displeasure upon Lulu, scolding becauseher school-books and hat had not been put in their proper places, her hairand dress made neat. 

"I'll put them away presently, Aunt Beulah. You'll not be bothered with memuch longer, " remarked the delinquent nonchalantly, her eyes still uponthe photograph Gracie was holding. 

"What's that?" asked Mrs. Scrimp, catching sight of it for the first time. 

"Our new mamma, " the children answered in a breath, Gracie's tones full ofgentle joyousness, Lulu's of a sort of defiant exultation, especially asshe added, "Papa's coming next week to take us away to live at home withhim. "

"On shipboard?"

"No, in a cottage by the sea. "

"Humph! he'll soon sail away again and leave you with your step-mother, just as I told you. "

"Well, I don't care, she looks enough kinder and sweeter than you do. "

"Indeed! I pity her, poor young thing!" sighed Mrs. Scrimp, scanning thephotograph with keen curiosity. "She's very young--a mere child I shouldsay--and to think of the trouble she'll have with you and Max!"

"We're not going to be a trouble to her, " said Lulu, "we're never atrouble to people that treat us decently. "

"I think your father might have given me an earlier warning of thesechanges, " grumbled Mrs. Scrimp. "I'll have to work myself sick to get youtwo ready in time. "

"Oh, no, Aunt Beulah, you needn't, " said little Gracie, "the new mamma canget somebody to make our clothes for us. Papa will pay for it. "

"Of course he will, " said Lulu. "You needn't do anything but have those wehave now all washed and ironed and packed up ready to go. "

"That's all you know about it!" returned Mrs. Scrimp sharply. "You haven'teither of you a suitable dress for travelling in, especially in companywith your father's rich wife. I'll have to go right out now to the storesand buy material, get a dress-maker to come in to-morrow bright and early, and help her myself all I can. There'll be no rest for me now till you'reoff. "

There was no rest for anybody else in the interim except Gracie. As Annremarked rather indignantly to Lulu, adding, "She's as cross as twosticks. "

"What makes her so cross?" asked Lulu. "I should think she'd be so gladshe's going to be rid of me that she'd feel uncommonly good-natured. "

"Not she!" laughed Ann, "she counted on the money your father pays foryears to come; but he's gone and got married and her cake is dough sureenough. "

"I'm glad he did, " returned Lulu emphatically. "I've made up my mind thatsuch a sweet-looking lady as our new mamma must be a great deal nicer andkinder than Aunt Beulah, if she is a step-mother. "

"She _is_ sweet-lookin', that's a fact, " said Ann. "I only wish I wasgoin' to make the change as well as you. "

The eventful day came at last to the children; all too soon to Mr. Fox andMrs. Scrimp, neither of whom relished the task of giving account of paststewardship; for conscience accused both of unfaithfulness to thecaptain's trust. 

The three children were gathered in the hotel parlor, impatiently awaitingthe arrival of the train. Mrs. Scrimp sat a little apart, fidgety and illat ease, though ensconced in a most comfortable, cushioned arm-chair; andMr. Fox paced the veranda outside, wondering if Max had dared or woulddare to inform his father of the cruel treatment received at his hands, and if so, whether the captain would credit the story. 

Violet and the captain had thus far had a delightful honeymoon, findingtheir mutual love deepening every hour, yet were not so engrossed witheach other as to quite forget his children; they had talked of themfrequently, and were now looking forward to the coming interview withscarcely less eagerness than the young people themselves. 

"We are almost there; it's the next station, " said the captain withsatisfaction, beginning to collect satchels and parcels. 

"Oh, I am glad!" exclaimed Violet. "I long to see the dear children and towitness their delight in being taken into--their father's arms. " Theconcluding words were spoken tremulously and with starting tears as a gushof tender memories came over her. 

Her husband understood it, and clasping her hand fondly in his bent overher with a whispered, "My darling! my own sweet precious little wife!"

She answered him with a look of love and joy. Then after a moment'ssilence, "Do you think, Levis, that they will be pleased that--that youhave given them a step-mother?" she asked timidly and with a sigh. 

"If they don't fall in love with your sweet face at first sight I shall beexceedingly surprised, " he said, gazing upon her with the fondestadmiration. 

"Ah, I cannot hope so much as that!" she sighed; "children are so apt tohear and treasure up unkind remarks about stepmothers; but I shall hope towin their hearts in time. It seems to me we cannot fail to love each otherwith such a bond of union as our common love to you. "

"No, I trust not, " he said, with a bright, happy smile. "I think they arewarm-hearted children; I'm sure they love their father; and it does seemto me utterly impossible that they should fail to love the dearest, loveliest, sweetest little lady in the world merely because she has becomethat father's wife. "

The whistle blew loudly, the train rushed on with redoubled speed, slackened, came to a stand-still, and in another minute the captain hadalighted and was handing out Violet. 

"Papa! oh, I'm so glad you're come at last!" cried a boyish voice at hisside. 

"Max, my dear boy!"

There was a hasty, hearty embrace, Violet standing smiling by, then thecaptain said, "Violet, my love, this is my son, " and Max, moved by asudden impulse, threw his arms about her neck and kissed her in a raptureof delight, so sweet and beautiful did she appear in his eyes. 

"Oh, I beg your pardon!" he stammered, releasing her and stepping back alittle, afraid he had taken too great a liberty. But venturing a secondglance into her face, he saw that she was smiling sweetly through herblushes. 

"No apology is needed, Max, " she said cheerily. "My brothers are alwaysready with a kiss for mamma and sisters. And, since I am not old enough tobe your mother, you will let me be your older sister; won't you?"

"Oh, thank you, yes!" said Max. "Papa, let me carry the parcels. Mysisters are waiting for us there in the hotel on the other side of thestreet. Gracie couldn't run across as I did, and Lu stayed with her. "

"That was quite right, " said his father. "I am in great haste to see mydarlings, but would rather not do so in a crowd. "

There was a very strong affection between the captain and his children. The hearts of the little girls beat fast, and their eyes filled withtears of joy as they saw him cross the street and come into the room wherethey were. With a cry of joy they threw themselves into his arms, and heclasped both together to his heart, caressing them over and over again, Violet looking on with eyes brimful of sympathetic tears. 

The next moment the captain remembered her, and releasing the children, introduced her. "This, my darlings, is the sweet lady whose picture I sentyou the other day, I am sure you will love her for papa's sake and her owntoo. "

"Will you not, dears?" Vi said, kissing them in turn. "I love you alreadybecause you are his. "

"I think I shall, " Lulu said emphatically, after one long, searching lookinto the sweet azure eyes; then turned to her father again. 

But Gracie, putting both arms round Violet's neck, held up her face foranother kiss, saying in joyous tones, "Oh, I do love you now! my sweet, pretty new mamma!"

"You darling!" responded Violet, holding her close. "I've wanted to haveyou and nurse you well again ever since I heard how weak and sick youwere. "

The words, reaching the ear of Mrs. Scrimp, as she hovered in thebackground, brought a scowl to her brow. "As if she--an ignorant youngthing--could do better for the child than I!" she said to herself. 

"Ah, Mrs. Scrimp!" the captain said, suddenly becoming aware of herpresence, and turning toward her with outstretched hand, "how d'ye do?Allow me to introduce you to Mrs. Raymond. " Violet offered her hand andwas given two fingers, while a pair of sharp black eyes looked coldly andfixedly into hers. 

Violet dropped the fingers, seated herself, and drew Gracie into her lap. 

"Am I not too heavy for you to hold?" the child asked, nestlingcontentedly in the arms that held her. 

"Heavy!" exclaimed Violet, tears starting to her eyes as they rested uponthe little thin, pale face. "You are extremely light, you poor darling!but I hope soon to see you grow fat and rosy in the sea air your papa willtake you to. "

The captain had just left the room in search of Mr. Fox, taking Max withhim. 

"You will have to be very careful not to overfeed that child, or you willhave her down sick, " remarked Mrs. Scrimp with asperity, addressingViolet. "She ought never to eat anything at all after three o'clock in theafternoon. "

Vi's heart swelled with indignation. "No wonder she is little more thanskin and bone, if that is the way she has been served!" she said, givingMrs. Scrimp as severe a look as her sweet, gentle countenance was capableof expressing. 

"She'd have been in her grave long ago if she hadn't been served so!"snapped Mrs. Scrimp. "I'm old enough to be your mother, Mrs. Raymond, andhaving had that child in charge for over two years--ever since her ownmother died--I ought to know what's good for her and what isn't. She isnaturally delicate, and to be allowed to overload her stomach would be thedeath of her. I can't eat after three o'clock, and neither can she. "

"A grown person is no rule for a child, " observed Violet, gently smoothingGracie's hair; "children need to eat enough to supply material for growthin addition to the waste of the system. Was it by the advice of acompetent physician you subjected her to such a regimen?"

"I've always had medical advice for her when it was needed, " snapped Mrs. Scrimp. 

The captain re-entered the room at that moment. He had made short workwith Mr. Fox, paying his bill, and sending him away with his ears tinglingfrom a well-merited rebuke for his savage treatment of a defencelesschild. 

It was Mrs. Scrimp's turn now; there was no evading the direct, pointedquestions of the captain, and she was compelled to acknowledge that shehad followed out her own theories in the treatment of Gracie, instead ofconsulting a physician, even after he had directed her to seek medicaladvice and treat the child in careful accordance with it. 

"Well, madam, " he remarked with much sternness and indignation, "if mylittle girl is an invalid for life, I shall always feel that you areresponsible for it. "

"I've been a mother to your children, Capt. Raymond, " she exclaimed, growing white with anger, "and this is your gratitude!"

"A mother!" he said, glancing from her to Vi, "I hope there are few suchmothers in the world. My poor starved baby! papa's heart aches to think ofwhat you have had to endure, " he added in moved tones, the big tearsshining in his eyes, as he lifted Gracie on his knees and fondled hertenderly. 

Mrs. Scrimp rose and took an abrupt and indignant leave, her bill havingbeen already settled. 

CHAPTER XIX. 

NEW RELATIONSHIPS AND NEW TITLES. 

"Are you hungry, Gracie darling?" her father asked with tender solicitude. 

"No, papa, " she said, "we had our breakfast just a little while beforeAunt Beulah brought us here. "

"Well, if ever you suffer from hunger again it shall not be your father'sfault, " he returned with emotion. 

Taking out his watch, "We have a full half hour yet, " he said. "Max, myson, do you know of any place near at hand where oranges, bananas, cakes, and candies are to be had?"

"Oh, yes, papa! just at the next corner. "

"Then go and lay in a store for our journey, " handing him some money. 

"May I go too, papa?" asked Lulu, as Max set off with alacrity. 

"No, stay here; I want you by my side, " he said, smiling affectionatelyupon her. 

"I'm glad you do! O papa, I have wanted you so badly!" she exclaimed, leaning her cheek against his arm and looking up lovingly into his face, "and so have Max and Gracie. Haven't we, Gracie?"

"Yes, indeed!" sighed the little one. "O papa, I wish you didn't ever haveto go away and leave us!"

"I hope to stay with you longer than usual this time, and when I must goaway again to leave you in a very happy home, where no one will wish toill-use you, " he said, with a glad look and smile directed toward hisbride. 

"No one at Ion or in any house of my dear mother's will ever show themanything but kindness and love if they are good and obedient, " said Vi. "We all obey grandpa, but we love to do it, because he is so dear andnever at all unreasonable. "

"No, I am sure he is not, " assented the captain, "and I shall esteem it agreat favor if he will count my darlings among his grandchildren. Howwould my little Gracie like to have a dear kind grandpa and grandma?" heasked, smoothing back the curls from the little pale face. 

"Oh, ever so much, papa!" she responded with a bright and joyous smile. "Inever had any, papa, had I?"

"Not since you were old enough to remember. "

Max did his errand promptly and well, returning just in time to go withthe others on board the train. 

They took a parlor car and travelled with great comfort, a happy familyparty, father and children rejoicing in being together again after a longseparation, Violet sympathizing in their joy and finding herself neitherforgotten nor neglected by any one of the little group of which she formeda part. 

Ever and anon her husband's eyes were turned upon her with a look of suchproud delight, such ardent affection as thrilled her heart with love, joy, and gratitude to the Giver of all good. 

Max's eyes too were full of enthusiastic admiration whenever his glancemet hers, and with boyish gallantry he watched for opportunities to waitupon her. 

Gracie regarded her with loving looks and called her mamma, as if the wordwere very sweet to say. 

Lulu alone was shy and reserved, never addressing Violet directly andanswering in monosyllables when spoken to by her, yet showed nothing likeaversion in look or manner. 

All went well for some hours, Max and Lulu partaking freely of the fruitand confectionery their father had provided, Gracie much more sparingly, eating less than he would have allowed her, being a sensible little girland fearful of such unwonted indulgence. 

But so unaccustomed were her digestive powers to anything but the mostrestricted diet that they gave way under the unusual strain, and shebecame so ill that Violet and the captain were filled with alarm. 

Fortunately they were rapidly nearing their destination, and were soonable to lay her upon the pretty, comfortable bed prepared for her and Luluin the new home by the sea, and summon a physician. 

The Dinsmores and Travillas had arrived some days before and made allarrangements for a delightful welcome to the bride and groom. Bothcottages were in perfect order, and a bountiful feast, comprising all thedelicacies of the season, was set out in the dining-room of that overwhich Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore presided. 

But Gracie's illness interfered somewhat with the carrying out of theirplans, dividing their emotions between pity and concern for the littlesufferer, and joy over the return of the newly married pair. 

The feast waited while the ladies, the captain, Mr. Dinsmore, and thephysician were occupied with the sick child. 

Max and Lulu, quite forgotten for the moment by their father and Violet, and much troubled about their little sister, would have felt very forlorn, had not Harold, Herbert, and Rosie set themselves, with the truepoliteness to which they had been trained, to making the little strangerscomfortable and at home. 

They seated them in the veranda, where they could enjoy the breeze and aview of the sea, and talked to them entertainingly of the variouspleasures--bathing, boating, fishing, etc. --in store for them. 

Presently Mr. Dinsmore came out with a prescription which he asked Haroldto take to the nearest drug-store. 

"May I go too, sir?" asked Max. "Wouldn't it be well for me to learn theway there, so that I can do the errand next time?"

"That is well thought of, my boy, " Mr. Dinsmore said, with a pleased look. "But are you not too tired to-night for such a walk? it is fully a quarterof a mile. "

"No, sir, thank you; a run will do me good after being so long cramped upin the cars. "

"Ah, " Mr. Dinsmore said, taking Max's hand and shaking it cordially, "Ithink I shall find you a boy after my own heart--active, independent, andready to make yourself useful. Shall I number you among my grandchildren?"

"I shall be very happy to have you do so, sir, " returned Max, coloringwith pleasure. 

"Then henceforth you may address me as grandpa, as these other youngfolks do, " glancing at Rosie and her brothers. "You also, my dear, if youlike, " he added, catching Lulu's dark eyes fixed upon him with a halfeager, half wistful look, and bending down to stroke her hair caressingly. 

"Thank you, sir, " she said, "I think I shall like to. But oh, tell me, please, is Gracie very sick?"

"I hope not, my dear; the doctor thinks she will be in her usual health ina day or two. "

The boys were already speeding away. 

The doctor had sent every one out of the sick-room except Mrs. Dinsmoreand Captain Raymond. The child clung to her long-absent father, and hewould not leave her until she slept. 

Elsie led the way to Violet's room, and there they held each other in along, tender, silent embrace. 

"My darling!" the mother said at length, "how I have missed you! how gladI am to have you in my arms again!"

"Ah, mamma! my own dearest mamma, it seems to me you can hardly be so gladas I am!" cried Vi, lifting her face to gaze with almost rapturousaffection into that of her mother. "I do not know how I could ever bear along separation from you!"

"You are happy?"

"Yes, mamma, very, very happy. I could never live without my husband now. Ah, I did not dream of half the goodness and lovableness I have alreadyfound in him. But ah, I am forgetting his children, Max and Lulu!" sheadded, hastily releasing herself from her mother's arms. "I must see wherethey are and that they are made comfortable. "

"Leave that to me, Vi dear, " her mother said; "you should be attending toyour toilet. I think the little sick one will fall asleep presently, whenshe can be left in Mammy's care, while we all gather about thesupper-table; and we must have you and Zoe there in bridal attire. "

"Zoe! I hardly saw her in my anxiety about Gracie!" exclaimed Violet. "Does she seem happy, mamma, and like one of us?"

"Yes, she is quite one of us; we all love her, and I think she is happyamong us, though of course grieving sadly at times for the loss of herfather. The trunks have been brought up, I see. That small one must belongto the two little girls. "

"Yes, mamma, and suppose we let it stand here for the present so that Ican readily help Lulu find what she wishes to wear this evening. "

"Yes, dear. I will go down and invite her up. Ah, here is mamma!" as Mrs. Dinsmore tapped at the half-open door, then stepped in. She embracedViolet with motherly affection. "A lost treasure recovered!" she saidjoyously. "Vi, dear, you have no idea how we have missed you. "

After a moment's chat, Rose and Elsie went down together to the veranda, where they found Lulu, making acquaintance with the other members of thefamily. 

"This is a new granddaughter for us, my dear, " Mr. Dinsmore said to hiswife. 

"Yes, shall I be your grandma, my child?" asked Rose, giving Lulu anaffectionate kiss. 

"And I too?" Elsie asked, caressing her in her turn. 

"Two grandmas!" Lulu said, with a slightly bewildered look, "and neitherof you looking old enough. How will anybody know which I mean, if I callyou both so?"

"I think, " said Mrs. Dinsmore, smiling, "it will have to be Grandma Roseand Grandma Elsie. "

"Yes, " said Mrs. Travilla, "that will do nicely. Now, my dear little girl, shall I take you upstairs that you may change your dress before tea?"

Lulu accepted the invitation with alacrity. They found Violet beginningher toilet while her maid unpacked her trunk. 

"Lulu, dear, " she said, as the child came in, "you want to change yourdress I suppose? Have you the key of your trunk?"

"Yes, ma'am, " taking it from her pocket. 

"Agnes, " said Vi, "leave mine for the present (you have taken out all Iwant for the evening) and unpack that other. "

The child drew near her young step-mother with a slightly embarrassed air. "I--I don't know what to call you, " she said in a half whisper. 

Violet paused in what she was doing, and looking lovingly into theblushing face, said, "You may call me cousin or auntie, whichever youplease, dear, till you can give me a little place in your heart; then, asI am not old enough to be your mother, you may call me Mamma Vi. What isit you wish to say to me?"

"Mayn't I go into some other room to wash and dress?"

"Certainly, dear, " Violet answered. Turning inquiringly to her mother, "What room can she have, mamma?"

"There is a very pleasant little one across the hall, " Elsie said. "IfLulu would like to have it for her own, it might be as well to have hertrunk sent in before unpacking. "

"Oh, I should like to have a room all to myself!" exclaimed Lulu. "I hadat Aunt Beulah's. Gracie slept with her, in the room next to mine. "

"I supposed you and Gracie would prefer to be together in a room close toyour papa's, " Elsie said; "but there are rooms enough for you to have oneentirely to yourself. "

"Then she shall, " Violet said, smiling indulgently upon the little girl. "Would you like my mother or me to help you choose what to wear to-night?I want you to put on your best and look as pretty as ever you can. "

Lulu's face flushed with pleasure. "Yes, ma'am, " she said, going to hertrunk, which Agnes had now opened; "but I haven't anything half sobeautiful as the dress your sister has on. "

"Haven't you? Well, never mind, you shall soon have dresses and otherthings quite as pretty as Rosie's, " Violet said, stooping over the trunkto see what was there. 

The child's eyes danced with delight. "Oh, shall I? Aunt Beulah neverwould get me the pretty things I wanted, to look like other girls, youknow, or let my dresses be trimmed with ruffles and lace like theirs. Iused to think it would be dreadful to have a step-mother, but now I'm sureit isn't always. "

Violet smiled. "I hope we shall love each other very much, and be veryhappy together, Lulu, " she said. "Now tell me which dress you want to wearthis evening. "

"This white muslin, " said the little girl, lifting it and shaking out thefolds. "I believe it's the best I have, but you see it has only tworuffles and not a bit of lace. And this sash she bought for me to wearwith it is narrow and not at all thick and handsome. "

"No, it is not fit for Capt. Raymond's daughter to wear!" Vi exclaimed alittle indignantly, taking the ribbon between her thumb and finger. "But Ican provide you with a better, and you may cut this up for your doll. "

"Oh, thank you!" cried Lulu, her eyes sparkling. "Step-mothers are niceafter all. "

"But Lulu, dear, " Elsie said, standing beside the little girl, andcaressing her hair with her soft white hand, "that is not a pretty orpleasant name to my ear; especially when applied to so young and dear alady as this daughter of mine, " looking tenderly into Vi's fair face. "Tryto think of her as one who dearly loves and is dearly loved by yourfather, and ready to love his children for his sake. "

"Yes, and for their own too, " Violet added, "just as I love my darlinglittle sister Rosie. Now, Lulu, I think you have no more than time to makeyour toilet. She will find everything needful in that room, will she, mamma?"

"Yes; water, soap and towels. Can you do everything for yourself, mychild?"

"Yes, ma'am, except fastening my dress and sash. "

"Then run in here or call to me when you are ready to have that done, "said Violet. 

Lulu was greatly pleased with her room. It had a set of cottage furniture, many pretty ornaments, an inviting-looking bed draped in white, and lacecurtains to the windows; one of which gave her a fine view of the sea. 

She made haste to wash and dress, thinking the while that their father'smarriage had brought a most delightful change to herself, brother andsister. 

"What soft, sweet voices they all have in talking, " she mused. "GrandmaRose, Grandma Elsie, and Mamma Vi. I'll call her that, if she'll let me, it's a pretty name. I like it, and I believe I have given her a littleplace in my heart already. "

Just then Agnes knocked at the door to ask if she wanted anything. 

"Yes, " Lulu said, admitting her, "I'm ready to put on my dress and wouldlike you to button it for me. "

"An' put dese on fo' you too, Miss?" and Agnes held up to the child'sastonished and delighted eyes a set of pink coral, necklace, bracelets andpin, and a sash of broad, rich ribbon just matching in color. 

"Oh, " cried Lulu half breathlessly, "where did they come from?"

"Miss Wilet sent 'em, " returned Agnes, beginning her work; "an' she toleme to ax you to come in dar when I'se done fixin' ob you, an' let her seeif eberyting's right. Humph! 'twon't be, kase you oughter hab ribbon foryo' hair to match wid de sash. "

CHAPTER XX. 

GRANDMA ELSIE AND MAMMA VI. 

Violet's toilet was finished. She wore a white silk trimmed with a greatdeal of very rich lace, white flowers in her hair and at her throat, andlooked very bridelike and beautiful. 

So Lulu thought as she came dancing in, full of joyous excitement over herown unusual adornment. Catching sight of Violet standing in front of hertoilet-table turning over a box of ribbons, "Oh, how beautiful you are!"she cried, "and how very kind to let me wear these, " glancing down at theornaments on her own person. 

"Let you wear them, dear child! I have given them to you for your own, andam looking now for ribbon for your hair to match the sash. I had forgottenit. Ah, here is just the thing!"

"Given me these lovely, lovely bracelets and necklace! and this handsomesash too!" cried Lulu in wide-eyed astonishment. "Oh, you are just too, too good to me! May I kiss you? and may I call you Mamma Vi now?"

"Yes, indeed, if you can give me a little place in your heart, " Violetanswered, taking the little girl in her arms. 

"Oh, a great big place!" cried Lulu, returning Vi's caresses with ardor. "Mamma Vi! it's a very pretty name, and you are my own sweet, pretty newmamma! A great deal nicer than if you were old enough to be my realmother. "

"Ah, Lulu, it makes me very happy to hear all that!" said her father'svoice behind her, and she felt his hand laid affectionately upon her head. 

She turned round quickly. "Ah, papa! how nice you look too! How isGracie?"

"I left her sleeping comfortably a half hour ago, and have been making mytoilet in another room. Ah, my love!" gazing at Violet with proud, fondly-admiring eyes, "how very lovely you are!"

"In my husband's partial eyes, " she returned, looking up at him with abright, sweet smile. 

"In Lulu's, too, judging from what I heard her say just now, " he said, turning his eyes upon his daughter again. "Ah, how you have improved herappearance!"

"Yes, papa, only see these lovely things she--Mamma Vi has given me!"cried Lulu, displaying her ornaments. 

"A most generous gift, " he said, examining the jewelry. "These coralornaments are costly, Lulu, and you must be careful of them. Mamma Vi! Isthat the name you have chosen for yourself, my love?" he asked, againturning to his bride. 

"Yes, if you approve, Levis?"

"I like it!" he returned emphatically. 

"And the other ladies, " remarked Lulu, "say I am to call them Grandma Roseand Grandma Elsie. And the gentleman told me and Max to call him grandpa. "

"May I come in?" asked Max at the door, which stood wide open. 

"Yes, " his father and Violet both answered. 

"Oh!" he cried, gazing at Violet in undisguised admiration, "how lovely, how splendid you look! What shall I call you?--you said, you know, and ofcourse anybody can see it, that you're not old enough to be my mother. "

"No, " she said, with a look of amusement and pleasure, "so you may use thename Lulu and Gracie will call me--Mamma Vi. "

"Miss Wilet, " said Agnes, appearing at the door, "dey says dey's waitin'suppah fo' you and de captain. "

"Ah, then we must not linger here! Lulu dear, let Agnes tie this ribbon onyour hair. She can do it more tastefully than I. Max, I see you aredressed for the evening. "

"Yes, Mamma Vi, your brother Herbert showed me my room--a very nice one inthe story over this--and had my trunk carried up. Am I all right?"

"You'll do very well, " his father said laughingly, but with a gleam offatherly pride in his eye. "Give your arm to your sister and we will godown--if you are ready, little wife. "

The last words were spoken in a fond whisper, close to Violet's ear, as hedrew her hand within his arm, and were answered by a bright, sweet smileas she lifted her azure eyes to his. 

The two cottages stood but a few feet apart, with no fence or wall ofseparation between, and were connected by a covered way; so that it wasvery much as if they were but one house. 

The room in which the feast was spread was tastefully decorated withevergreens, flags and flowers; the table too was adorned with lovelybouquets and beautifully painted china and sparkled with silver and cutglass. 

The Dinsmores, Travillas, and Raymonds gathered about it as one family, abright, happy party. Edward was there with his Zoe, looking extremelypretty in bridal attire, each apparently as devoted as ever to the other. 

Max and Lulu behaved themselves admirably, the latter feeling quitesubdued by the presence of her father and so many elegantly dressed anddistinguished-looking people. 

It was certainly a great change from Mrs. Scrimp's little dining-room withits small, plainly furnished table, the three to sit down to it, and Annto wait upon them--a very pleasant change to Lulu. She enjoyed it greatly. 

She and Max scarcely spoke during the meal, occupying themselves in eatingand listening to the lively discourse going on around them, but were wellwaited upon, the servants being attentive, and both Elsie and Violetinteresting themselves to see that the little strangers were notneglected. 

On leaving the table, all repaired to the veranda and front door yard, forthe enjoyment of a moonlight evening and the sea breeze. 

The young Travillas and Raymonds speedily grew quite intimate and weremutually pleased; but the latter, fatigued with the journey andexcitements of the day, were ready to retire at an early hour. 

They waited only for family worship, conducted for both households by Mr. Dinsmore, then Violet and they bade good-night and went back to their owndwelling, leaving the captain to sit some time longer on the veranda withthe other gentlemen. 

"Have you everything you want in your room, Max?" Violet asked in a kindlytone, as the boy took up his bedroom candle. 

"Yes, thank you, Mamma Vi, " he answered cheerfully, but with a longinglook at her. 

"What is it, Max?" she asked, with her sweet smile. "Don't be afraid totell me if there is anything you want. "

"I--I'm afraid I oughtn't to ask it, " he stammered, blushing vividly, "I've no right, and--and it might be disagreeable, but--oh, I should liketo kiss you good-night!"

"You may, Max, " she said, laughing, then put her arms round his neck andgave the kiss very heartily. 

"Thank you, " he cried in blushing delight; then hurried away, callingback, "Ah, good-night, Lu!"

"Good-night, " she answered, looking wistfully at Violet. 

"Shall I have a good-night kiss from you too, dear?" Violet asked, offering her lips. 

Lulu accepted the invitation in an eager, joyous way, then asked, "May Isee Gracie before I go to bed?"

"Yes, dear; we will go in very quietly lest we should wake her if she isasleep. "

They found Gracie awake, Aunt Chloe shaking up her pillow and smoothingthe cover over her. 

"O mamma!" she cried in her little weak voice, "how beautiful you are!And, Lulu, where did you get those pretty things?"

"Mamma Vi gave them to me, " Lulu said. "O Gracie dear, are you better?"

"Yes, I don't feel sick now, only weak. She's very good to me, she andeverybody, " with a grateful look at her sable nurse. 

"Yes, " Violet said, "mammy is always good and kind, especially to a sickperson. Now Lulu and I will kiss you good-night and leave you to go tosleep again. "

"You are nice and kind to come, both of you, " Gracie said, receiving andreturning their caresses. 

"Mammy, " Violet said as she turned to leave the room, "I'm afraid you arenot able to take the care of her through the night. "

"Yes, I is, honey darlin', " responded the old woman with warmth. "I'll haba quilt spread down dar on de flo', and I'll lie dar an' sleep, an' ef dechile stirs I'll wake right up and gib her eberyting she wants. "

"Mamma Vi, don't you want to see my room?" Lulu asked as they neared itsdoor. "I think it is ever so pretty. "

"So it is, " Violet said, stepping inside with her, "and I am very glad youlike it. If you think of anything else you want in it, don't hesitate toask for it; both your papa and I wish to do all in our power to make hischildren happy. "

"Thank you. Oh, it is so nice to have a new mamma! such a sweet, kindone, " Lulu exclaimed with impulsive warmth, setting down her candle andthrowing her arms about Violet's neck. 

"Dear child!" Violet said, returning the embrace, "I am very glad you arebeginning to love me. I hope we shall all love each other better every dayand be very happy together. You won't forget to ask God's protectionbefore you sleep, and thank him for his love and care? What a mercy thatwe met with no accident on our journey!"

"Yes, indeed! and I won't forget to say my prayers, Mamma Vi. "

They exchanged an affectionate good-night, and Violet went to her ownroom. 

Agnes was there, waiting to assist her in disrobing, to take down herhair, and put things in place. 

As the maid withdrew, her duty finished, Elsie came softly in. 

"Dearest mamma!" cried Vi joyously, "I am so glad you have come! I thoughtyou would. "

"Yes, daughter, I have just seen Rosie and Walter in bed, and could notdeny myself the pleasure of one of the old-time private talks with my dearVi. Ah, you don't know how I have missed them ever since Capt. Raymondcarried you away from Ion!"

They were standing together with their arms about each other. 

"Mamma, " Violet said with an earnest, tenderly affectionate look into hermother's face, "how very beautiful you are! and how youthful inappearance! there is not a line in your face, not a silver thread in yourhair, and it still has that exquisite golden tinge it has had ever since Ican remember. "

"Ah, dear child! we can see many beauties in those we love that areimperceptible to other eyes, " Elsie returned with a quiet smile. 

"But, mamma, every one sees you to be both young and beautiful in looks. You look far too young to be addressed as grandma by Max and Lulu, or evenGracie. I wish you would not allow it, but let them call you auntie. "

"It does not make me really any older, or even to feel or look so, " themother said, with a low silvery laugh of amusement at Violet'searnestness. 

"But I don't like it, dear mamma. "

"Then I am sorry I gave them permission; yet having done so, I do not liketo recall it. But, daughter dear, old age will come to us all, if we live, and it is quite useless to fight against the inevitable. "

"Yet we needn't hurry it on, mamma. "

"No; but consider; had I and my eldest daughter married as early in lifeas my mother did I might now have own grandchildren as old as Max andLulu. Beside, " she added gayly, "how can I hope to deceive people intosupposing me young when I have three married children. "

"Yes, mamma, that is true, " Violet said, after a moment's thought; "andperhaps the children may be more ready to submit to the guidance andcontrol of a grandma than of an aunt. Oh, how thankful I am that whentheir father is no longer here to govern them, they will not be left to mymanagement alone!"

CHAPTER XXI. 

REBELLION. 

The next morning Violet began her housekeeping; a not very arduousundertaking, as competent servants had been brought from Ion for herestablishment as well as for that next door. 

It was pleasant to her and the captain to sit down to a well-appointedtable of their own. 

Max and Lulu too, coming in fresh and rosy from a stroll along the beach, thought it extremely nice that at last they had a home of their own withtheir father and so sweet and pretty a new mamma to take the head of thetable. 

The oysters and fish, just out of the ocean that morning, and AuntPhillis's corn-bread and muffins were very delicious to the keen youngappetites, and as Gracie was reported much better, every one was in goodspirits. 

The captain and Violet had both been in to see her and ask how she hadpassed the night, before coming down to the breakfast-room. 

Immediately after the meal the captain conducted family worship. Thatover, Max and Lulu seized their hats, and were rushing out in thedirection of the beach, but their father called them back. 

"Where are you going?" he asked. 

"Down by the waves, " said Lulu. 

"To the beach, sir, " said Max. 

"Without a word to any one!" he remarked a little severely. "How do youknow that you are not wanted by your mamma or myself? We are goingdirectly for a drive on the beach and I had intended to take you bothalong. Now I am inclined to leave you behind. "

The children hung their heads, looking crestfallen and disappointed. 

"O Levis, please let them go!" pleaded Violet, laying her handpersuasively on her husband's arm. "I am sure they did not mean to dowrong. "

"Well, my love, " he answered, "I will overlook it for this time for yoursake. But, Max and Lulu, you must understand that you are under authorityand are not to leave the house without first reporting yourselves to yourmother or me and asking permission, stating where you desire to go andabout how long you expect or wish to stay. "

"Yes, sir, " said Max; "but if you and Mamma Vi should both happen to beout?"

"Then you may go to Grandpa Dinsmore or Grandma Elsie. "

"Yes, sir, " Max answered in a pleasant tone; adding, "I'm sorry to havedispleased you, papa, and will be careful in future to obey the ordersyou've just given. "

But Lulu remained silent, and her countenance was sullen. She had been solong in the habit of defying Mrs. Scrimp's authority that now she wasdisposed to resist even her father's control in small matters, and thinkshe ought to be permitted to go and come at her own sweet will, and thethought of being subjected to the sway of her new mother and her relativesseemed to the proud, passionate child almost beyond endurance. 

The expression of her face did not escape her father's observation, but hethought it best to take no notice of it, hoping her angry and rebelliousfeelings would soon pass away and leave her again the pleasant, lovablechild she had been a few moments since. 

The carriage was already at the door. 

"I think the air would do Gracie good, " he remarked to Vi, "and the drivenot prove too fatiguing if I support her in my arms. We have room for onemore than our party. Will not your mother go with us?"

"Thank you; I'll run in and ask her, " Vi said, tripping away. 

Elsie accepted the invitation, remarking gayly, "I have no housekeepingcares to prevent me. I'm just a daughter at home in her father's house, "giving him a loving look and smile, "as I used to be in the glad, freedays of my girlhood. "

The captain came down with Gracie in his arms, hers about his neck, herlittle pale face on his shoulder. She looked thin and weak, but veryhappy. 

Grandma Elsie and Mamma Vi greeted her with loving inquiries and tenderkisses. 

"Do you feel strong enough for the drive, dear?" asked the former. 

"Yes, ma'am; with papa to hold me in his strong arms. "

"Papa's dear baby girl!" murmured the captain low and tenderly, imprintinga gentle kiss on the pale forehead. 

Mr. Dinsmore came over, handed the ladies and Lulu into the carriage, thenheld Gracie till her father was seated in it and ready to take her again. 

It was a bright, fair morning with a delicious breeze from the sea, andall enjoyed the drive greatly, unless perhaps Lulu, who had not yetrecovered her good humor. She sat by her father's side, scarcely speaking, but no one seemed to notice it. 

Gracie was asleep when they returned, and her father carried her up to herroom and laid her down so gently that she did not wake. 

The others had paused in the veranda below. Zoe and Rosie came runningover to say the bathing hour was near at hand, and to ask if they weregoing in. 

"I am not, " Elsie said. 

"Nor I, " said Violet, "I'm a little tired and should prefer to sit hereand chat with mamma. "

"I'd like to go in, " said Max. "When papa comes down I'll ask if I may. "

"Mamma, " said Rosie, "I don't care to go in to-day, but may I go down onthe beach and watch the bathers?"

"Yes, daughter. Take a servant with you to carry some camp-chairs and towatch over Walter, if he wants to go with you. "

"You'll come too, won't you?" Rosie said to Lulu; "it's good fun to watchthe people in the water. "

"I'll have to ask leave first, " replied Lulu in a sullen tone. "Can youwait till papa comes down?"

"That is not necessary since your father has invested me with authority togive you permission, " remarked Violet pleasantly. "You may go if you willkeep with Rosie and the others. But, Lulu, my dear, I wish you would firstgo up to your room, take off those coral ornaments and put them awaycarefully. They do not correspond well with the dress you have on, andare not suitable for you to wear down on the beach at this time of day. "

She had noticed, on first seeing the child that morning, that she had themon, but said nothing about it till now. 

"You said you gave them to me to keep!" cried Lulu, turning a flushed andangry face toward her young step-mother; "and if they are my own, I have aright to wear them when and where I please, and I shall do so. "

"Lucilla Raymond, to whom were you speaking?" asked her father sternly, stepping into their midst from the open door-way. 

The child hung her head in sullen silence, while Vi's face was full ofdistress; Elsie's but little less so. 

"Answer me!" commanded the captain in a tone that frightened even insolentLulu. "I overheard you speaking in an extremely impertinent manner to someone. Who was it?"

"Your new wife, " muttered the angry child. 

The captain was silent for a moment, trying to gain control over himself. Then he said calmly, but not less sternly than he had spoken before, "Comehere. "

Lulu obeyed, looking pale and frightened. 

He leaned down over her, unclasped the coral ornaments from her neck andarms, and handing them to Violet, said, "My dear, I must ask you to takethese back. I cannot allow her to keep or wear them. "

"O Levis!" began Vi in a tone of entreaty; but a look and a gentle "Hush, love!" silenced her. 

"Now, Lucilla, " he said, resuming his stern tone of command, "ask yourmamma's pardon for your impertinence, and tell her you will never beguilty of the like again. "

"I won't!" exclaimed Lulu passionately. 

At that, her father, with a look of utter astonishment at her presumption, took her by the hand and led her into the house, upstairs and to her ownroom. 

"My daughter, " he said, "I must be obeyed. I could not have believed youwould be so naughty and disobedient so soon after my return to you, for Ithought you loved me. "

He paused for a reply, and Lulu burst out with passionate vehemence, "Youdon't love me, papa! I knew you wouldn't when you got a new wife. I knewshe'd steal all your love away from your own children!"

In that moment of fierce, ungovernable anger all Vi's sweet kindness wasforgotten and old prejudices returned in full force. 

The captain was too much shocked and astonished to speak for a moment. Hehad not dreamed that his child possessed so terrible a temper. 

"You were never more mistaken, Lulu, " he said at length in a moved tone;"I never loved my children better than I love them now. Are you not sorryfor your rebellious reply to me a moment since? will you not tell me so, and do at once what I have bidden you?"

"No; I'll never ask her pardon!"

"You will stay in this room in solitary confinement until you do, thoughit should be all summer, " he said firmly, went out, locked the door on theoutside, and put the key into his pocket. 

Zoe and Rosie had hastened away the moment the captain appeared upon thescene in the veranda, and as he led Lulu into the house Violet burst intotears. 

"O mamma!" she sobbed, "what shall I do? I wish I had not said a wordabout the ornaments, but just let her wear them! I never meant to maketrouble between my husband and his children! I never should have done sointentionally. "

"My dear child, you have no cause to blame yourself, " Elsie saidsoothingly. 

"No, not a bit of it, Mamma Vi, " cried Max, coming to her side. "I love Ludearly, but I know she has a very bad temper, and I think it's for her owngood that papa has found it out already, so that he can take means to helpher conquer it. Dear me! I should never dare to say 'I won't' to him. NorI shouldn't want to, because he's such a good father to us, and I love himdearly. "

"Dear Max, " Violet said, smiling through her tears as she took his handand pressed it affectionately in hers. "I am sure he is a good, kind, loving father; his children could never doubt it if they had heard all hehas said to me about them, and I trust you will never do anything to givehim pain. "

The captain rejoined them presently, asking the ladies with an assumedcheerfulness if they intended bathing. 

They answered in the negative, and turning to Max he said kindly, "My son, if you wish to do so, I will take you with me. The surf is fine thismorning and I feel inclined to go in. "

"Oh, thank you, papa!" cried Max, "it will be splendid to go in with you!"

The captain re-entered the house and Violet followed. He turned at thesound of her quick, light step, saw the distress in her face, the tears inher eyes, and was much moved thereby. 

"My love, my darling!" he said, taking her in his arms, "do not let thisthing trouble you. Ah, it pains me deeply that a child of mine should havealready brought tears to those sweet eyes. "

"O Levis!" she sobbed, hiding her face on his breast, "forgive her for mysake. Don't insist on her asking my pardon. I would not have her sohumiliated. "

"There are few things you would ask, love, that I would not grant, " hesaid tenderly, softly smoothing the golden hair; "but for my daughter'sown sake I must compel her obedience. What would become of her if left tothe unrestrained indulgence of such a temper and spirit of insubordinationas she has shown this morning?"

"I know you are right, " she sighed, "but I cannot help feeling sorry forher, and oh it almost breaks my heart to think that I was the cause of thetrouble. "

"Ah, but in that you are mistaken, sweet wife, " he said, repeating hiscaresses; "Lulu's own evil temper was the exciting cause. I could see thatshe was in a sullen, rebellious mood from the time that I called her inbefore our drive. That I must begin already to discipline one of mychildren gives me a sad heart, but I must try to do my duty by her at whatever cost of pain to her or myself. "

As her father turned the key in the lock, Lulu stamped with passion, andclenched her fists until the nails were buried in the flesh. "I'll neverdo it!" she hissed between her tightly-shut teeth, "no, never! if hekeeps me here till I die. I just wish I could die and make him sorry fortreating me so!"

Then throwing herself on the bed she sobbed herself to sleep. 

She must have slept several hours, for she was waked by the opening of herdoor, and starting up found her father standing beside her with a smallsalver in his hand. On it were a plate of graham bread, a china bowlcontaining milk, and a silver spoon. 

"Here is your dinner, Lucilla, " he said, speaking in a quiet, grave tone, as he set the salver on a little stand in a corner between the windows;"unless you are ready to obey me. In that case, I shall take you down toyour mamma, and when you have begged her pardon and told me you are sorryfor your rebellious words and conduct toward me, you can eat your dinnerwith us. "

"I don't want to go downstairs, papa, " she said, turning her face awayfrom him. "I'd rather stay here. But I should think you'd feel mean to eatall sorts of good things and give me nothing but skim-milk and that blackbread. "

"I give you that bread because it contains more nutriment than the white, "he said. "As to the good things the rest of us may have to eat, you shallshare them as soon as you are ready to submit to my authority, but nottill then. "

He waited a moment for a reply, but receiving none, went out and lockedthe door. 

When he came again at tea-time, bringing a fresh supply of the same sortof fare, he found the first still untouched. 

Lulu was very hungry, and really for the last hour had quite longed to eatthe bread and milk, but from sheer obstinacy would not touch it. Shethought if she held out long enough in her refusal to eat it, somethingbetter would be furnished her. 

But now she fairly quailed before the glance of her father's eye as he setthe second salver down and seating himself said, "Come here to me!"

She obeyed, looking pale and frightened. 

He drew her in between his knees, put one arm round her, and taking thebowl he had just brought in the other hand, held it to her lips, with thecommand, "Drink this! every drop of it!"

When that was done, he commanded, "Now break this bread into that otherbowl of milk, take your spoon and eat it. "

Now thoroughly frightened, she did not dare disobey. 

He sat and watched her till the meal was finished, she feeling that hisstern eye was upon her, but never once venturing to look at him. 

"Have you anything to say to me, Lucilla?" he asked as he rose to go. 

"No, sir, " she answered, with her eyes upon the carpet. 

"My child, you are grieving me very much, " he said, took up the salver andwent out. 

Lulu did love her father--though not nearly so well as her ownself-will--and his parting words brought a gush of tears from her eyes. She was half inclined to call to him to come back, and say she would obey. 

But no! her heart rose up in fierce rebellion at the thought of askingpardon of his "new wife. " "I'll never do it!" she repeated half aloud, "and when I get sick and die from being kept shut up here papa will wishhe hadn't tried to make me. "

So she hardened her heart day after day and refused to yield. 

Her fare continued the same, her father bringing it to her three timesdaily, now in silence, now asking if she were ready to obey. 

She saw no one else but the maid who came each morning to put her room inorder; except as she caught sight of one or another from the window. Sheliked to look at the sea and watch the vessels sailing by, but was oftenseized with a great longing to get down close to the waves. 

After the second day she grew very, very weary of her imprisonment andindulged in frequent fits of crying as she heard the gay voices of Max andthe young Travillas at sport on the veranda, in the yards below, or knewfrom the sound of wheels, followed by an hour or more of quiet, thatdrives were being taken. 

She knew she was missing a great deal of enjoyment. Being of an activetemperament, extremely fond of out-door exercise, made this closeconfinement even more irksome to her than it would have been to manyanother. 

She had nothing to do. She had turned over the contents of her trunkseveral times, had found her doll, and tried to amuse herself with it, butthere was little fun in that without a playmate. She had no book but herBible, and that she did not care to read; there was too much in it tocondemn her. 

"Papa, " she said, when he came with her breakfast on the fourth day, "mayn't I go and run on the beach for ten minutes and then come back?"

"What did I tell you about leaving this room?" he asked. 

"I know you said I shouldn't do it till I asked her pardon, " she replied, bursting into a fit of passionate weeping, "but I'll never do that, and ifI get sick and die you'll be sorry for keeping me shut up so. "

"You must not talk to your father in that impertinent manner, " he saidsternly. "It is not I who keep you here, it is your own self-will; andjust so long as that lasts you will remain here. "

"I haven't a friend in the world, " she sobbed; "my own father is cruel tome since he----"

"Hush!" he said in stern indignation. "I will have no more of thatimpertinence! Will you force me to try the virtue of a rod with you, Lucilla?"

She started and looked up at him with frightened eyes. 

"I should be very loath to do so, but advise you to be very careful howyou tempt me to it any farther, " he said, and left her. 

He went down with a heavy heart to the breakfast-room where his wife, Maxand Gracie awaited his coming. 

All three greeted his entrance with loving smiles. Vi was looking verylovely, and he noticed with gratitude that Gracie's eyes were bright andher cheeks faintly tinged with pink. She was improving rapidly in thebracing sea-air and winning all hearts by her pretty ways. 

She ran to meet him, crying, "Good-morning, my dear papa!"

He took her in his arms and kissed her tenderly two or three times, longing to be able to do the same by the other one upstairs, put her inher place at the table and took his own. 

A tempting meal was spread upon it, but he felt that he could scarcelyenjoy it because it must not be shared with Lulu. 

Vi read it all in his face, and her heart bled for him. She had seenthrough all these days of conflict with his stubborn, rebellious child, that his heart was sore over it, though he made great efforts to appear asusual, and never spoke of Lulu except when it was quite necessary. 

He had had to explain to Gracie why her sister was not to be seen, and toentreat Vi not to grieve over her unintentional share in occasioning thestruggle, or let it hinder her enjoyment. 

Elsie had made a generous settlement upon each of her married children; soVi had abundant means of her own. She longed to spend some of her money onher husband's children, especially in pretty, tasteful dress for the twolittle girls. She asked his consent, deeming it mot right to act withoutit. 

He seemed pleased that she had it in her heart to care for them in thatway, but said nothing could be done for Lulu at present, she might do whatshe would for Gracie, but the expense must be his; nor could she move himfrom that decision. 

She had begun to carry out her plans for Gracie, delighting herself inmaking her look as pretty as possible, and each day hoping that Lulu'ssubmission would make it possible to do the same by her. 

She knew this morning, by her husband's countenance and his coming inalone, that that hope had again failed, and her heart sank; but for hissake she assumed an air of cheerfulness and chatted of other things with asprightliness and gayety that won him from sad thoughts in spite ofhimself. 

CHAPTER XXII. 

 "Prithee, forgive me!"

"Papa, can't I see Gracie?" Lulu asked when he came in with her dinner. 

"Certainly, if you are ready to obey. "

The child's lip quivered. "I'm so tired of that bread and milk, " she said. "Can't I have something else? I'm sure you and everybody in the house havea great many good things. "

"We have, and it is a great grief to me that I cannot share them with mylittle Lulu. I have very little enjoyment in them because of that. "

"Papa, I'm sorry I've been so naughty, so impertinent to you. I don't meanever to be so again; and I'll be a good girl every way after this, ifyou'll let me out. "

"Then come with me to your mamma, " he said, holding out his hand. 

"I can't ask pardon of her, " she said, turning away with a sob. 

"You must, Lucilla, " he said in a tone that made her tremble. "You neednot think to conquer your father. I shall keep you here on this plainfare and in solitary confinement until you are entirely penitent andsubmissive. "

He waited a moment, but receiving no reply, went out and locked the door. 

"She is still stubborn, " he said to Violet, whom he found alone in theirroom across the hall, sighing deeply as he spoke; "and the closeconfinement is telling upon her; she grows pale and thin. Oh, how my heartbleeds for her, my dear child! But I must be firm. This is an importantcrisis in her life, and her future character--therefore her happiness fortime and eternity--will depend greatly upon how this struggle ends. "

The next day was the Sabbath, and on returning from church, he went toLulu's room. 

Little had passed between them since the talk of yesterday when he carriedin her dinner. He found her now sitting in a listless attitude, and shedid not look up on his entrance. 

He lifted her from her chair, sat down in it himself, and took her on hisknee. 

"Has this holy day brought no good thoughts or feelings to my littlegirl?" he asked, gently smoothing the hair back from her forehead. 

"You know I couldn't go to church, papa, " she said, without looking athim. 

"No; I know you could have gone, had you chosen to be a good, obedientchild. "

"Papa, how can you go on trying to make me tell a lie when you have alwaystaught me it was such a wicked, wicked thing to do?"

"I try to make you tell a lie! what can you mean, daughter?" he asked ingreat surprise. 

"Yes, papa, you are trying to make me ask Mamma Vi's pardon after I havesaid I wouldn't. "

"Ah, my child, that was a wicked promise because it was rebellion againstyour father's authority, which God commands you to respect. Therefore thesin was in making it, and it is your duty to break it. "

Then he made her repeat the fifth commandment, and called her attention toits promise of long life and prosperity, as far as it shall be for God'sglory and their own good, to all such as keep it. 

"I want you to inherit that blessing, my child, " he said, "and to escapethe curses pronounced against those who refuse obedience to theirparents. "

Opening the Bible, he read to her, "The eye that mocketh at his father anddespiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it. "

She gave him a frightened look, then, with a slight shudder, hid her faceon his breast, but did not speak. 

"Lulu, " he said, again softly stroking her hair, "about nine years ago Icame home from a long voyage to find a dear little dark-eyed babydaughter, and as I took her in my arms, oh how my heart went out in loveto her and gratitude to God for giving her to me! I loved her dearly then. I have loved her ever since with unabated affection, and never doubted herlove to me until now. "

"Papa, I do love you, " she said, hastily brushing away a tear. "I've saidI was sorry for being naughty to you and didn't mean to do so any more. "

"And yet are continuing to be naughty and disobedient all the time. It isquite possible, Lulu, that you may some day be fatherless; if that timeshould come, do you think you will look back with pleasure to these daysof rebellion?"

At that she cried quite bitterly, but her father waited in vain for a wordof reply. 

He put her on her knees on the floor, knelt beside her, and with his handon her head prayed earnestly, tenderly that the Lord would cast out herwicked temper, forgive her sins, give her a new heart, and make her hisown dear child. 

Rising, he took her in his arms again for a moment, she still sobbing, butsaying not a word, then putting her gently aside, he left the room. 

To her surprise her dinner of bread and milk was presently brought up byAgnes, who set it down and went out without exchanging a word with her. 

The same thing occurred at supper-time. 

Lulu began to be filled with curiosity not unmingled with apprehension, but was too proud to question the girl. 

All through the afternoon and evening her thoughts dwelt much upon whather father had said to her, and the words and tender tones of his prayerrang in her ears and melted her heart. Beside she had become thoroughlyconvinced that what he had said he would do, so that there was no hope ofrelease until won by obedience. 

She was disappointed that he did not come with her supper nor afterward, for she had almost resolved to submit. She cried herself to sleep thatnight, feeling such a love for her father as she had never known before, and an intense longing for his kiss of forgiveness. 

She became not willing only, but eager to do his bidding that she mightreceive it. 

In the morning she dressed herself with neatness and care and impatientlyawaited his coming. She was sure it must be long past the usual hour whenat last the door opened and Violet came in with the waiter of bread andmilk. 

She set it down and turned to the little girl, who stood gazing at her insilent surprise. 

"Lulu, dear, your father is very ill, " she said in tones quivering withemotion, and then the child noticed that there were traces of tears abouther eyes and on her cheeks, "He was in terrible pain all night, and isvery little better this morning, " she went on. "O Lulu, I had a dear, dearfather once, and he was taken ill very much as yours has been and--in afew days. Oh, how I loved him! and while he lived I thought I was a gooddaughter to him, for I don't remember ever being wilfully disobedient, butafter he was gone my heart reproached me with having neglectedopportunities to give him pleasure, and not having always obeyed quite sopromptly and cheerfully as I might, and I would have given worlds to goback and be and do all I ought. "

She ended with a burst of tears, covering her face with her hands andsobbing, "O papa, papa! O my husband, my dear, dear husband!"

"O Mamma Vi! I will ask your pardon--I do! won't you please forgive me forbeing so very, very naughty and impertinent? when you have been so goodand kind to me too, " sobbed Lulu, dropping on her knees at Violet's feet. 

"I do with all my heart, " Violet said, lifting her up and kissing her. "And shall we not always love each other for your dear father's sake?"

"Oh, yes, yes, indeed! I do love you! I don't know what made me be sowicked and stubborn. Mayn't I go to papa and tell him how sorry I am, andask him to forgive me too?"

"Yes, dear, come; perhaps it may help him to grow better, for I know hehas grieved very much over this, " Vi said, taking the child's hand andleading her into the room where the captain lay. 

As he saw them come in thus his eye brightened in spite of the severe painhe was enduring. 

With one bound, Lulu was at his side, sobbing, "Papa, papa! I'm so sorryfor all my badness, and all your pain. Please, please forgive me. I'vedone it--asked Mamma Vi's pardon, and--and I'll never talk so to heragain, nor ever disobey you any more. "

"I hope not, my darling, " he said, drawing her down to give her a tenderfatherly kiss of forgiveness. "I am rejoiced that you have given up yourrebellion so that now I can love and pet you to my heart's content--if Godspares me to get up from this bed of pain. I do forgive you gladly, deardaughter. "

For several days the captain was very ill, but the best of medical advicewas at hand, the best of nursing was given him by Elsie and Violet, assisted by Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore and others, and, by the blessing ofProvidence, upon these means he recovered. 

Lulu seemed very unhappy and remorseful until it was quite certain that hewould get well, took little interest in any kind of recreation, and wasoften found hovering about the door of his room, eager to learn how he wasand if possible gain admission to his presence, or permission to dosomething for his relief. 

She was a changed child from that time, perfectly respectful, obedient, and affectionate toward both her father and Violet. 

When the captain had once begun to mend, the improvement was very rapid, and he was soon able to share in the drives and other recreations of theirparty. 

During his illness Grandma Elsie had been very kind to his children, acting a mother's part by them, attending to their wants, comforting andencouraging them with hope of his recovery, and they had grown very fondof her. 

At first Lulu shrank from all her new mamma's relatives, and even from Maxand Gracie, ashamed of her misconduct and expecting to receive unpleasantreminders of it. 

But she met with nothing of the kind, except that Max, when she first camedownstairs, said. "It does seem strange, Lulu, that when so many men haveto obey papa the instant he speaks, his own little girl should stand outso long and stubbornly against his authority;" and Gracie, with her armsabout her sister's neck, sobbed, "O Lu how could you make dear papa sosorry for so many days?"

"Was he so sorry?" sobbed Lulu. 

"Yes, indeed; sometimes he hardly ate anything, and looked so sad that thetears came in my eyes, and in Mamma Vi's too. "

"Oh, I hope that wasn't what made him sick!" cried Lulu, the tearsstreaming down her face. "I'll never, never behave so to him again. "

Lulu was still more remorseful as time went on and everybody was so kindto her, seeming never to remember her naughtiness and disgrace, but givingher a share in all the pleasures devised for themselves which weresuitable to her age. 

She was especially touched and subdued by the interest Violet took inseeing her provided with new dresses made and trimmed in the fashion(which, to her extreme vexation, Mrs. Scrimp had always disregarded), andwith many other pretty things. 

When she thanked her new mamma, she was told, "Your father pays for themall, dear. "

Then she went to him with tears in her eyes, and putting her arms roundhis neck, thanked him for all his goodness, confessing that she did notdeserve it. 

"You are very welcome nevertheless, daughter, " he said, "and all I ask inreturn is that you will be good and obedient. "

Vi wished to return to Lulu the pink coral ornaments, but that he wouldnot allow. 

It was a great disappointment to Lulu, for she admired them extremely, butshe showed herself entirely submissive under it. 

CHAPTER XXIII

MAX. 

"Papa, " said Max one morning, as they rose from the breakfast-table, "Ifeel as if a long walk would do me good. I'd like to go farther down thebeach than I ever have yet. "

"Very well, my son, you may go, only keep out of danger and come home intime for dinner, " was the indulgent rejoinder, and the lad set off atonce. 

He presently fell in with two other lads a little older than himself, boarders in one of the near hotels, and casual acquaintances of his. Theyjoined him and the three rambled on together, whistling, talking, andoccasionally stooping to pick up a shell, pebble, or bit of seaweed orsponge. 

At length they reached an inlet that seemed to bar their farther progress, but looking about they spied an old boat stranded by yesterday's tide alittle higher up the inlet, and were of course instantly seized with agreat desire to get her into the water and set sail in her. 

"Wouldn't it be jolly fun?" cried Bob Masters, the eldest of the trio. "Come on, boys. "

Max was a rather heedless fellow, and never stopping to consider the rightor wrong of the thing, or whether he were running into danger or not, wentwith the others. 

They found the boat, as they thought, in fair condition; there were twooars in her, and both Max and John Cox, the other lad, thought they knewpretty well how to use them, while Masters was sure he could steer. 

With a good deal of exertion they set the little craft afloat; thenclimbing in they pushed boldly out into deep water and bore down towardthe ocean. 

Max had thought they were only going to cross to the farther side of theinlet and continue their walk; but almost before he knew it, they were outupon the sea, and the boat was rocking upon the waves in a way that seemedto him decidedly alarming. 

"Boys, " he said, "let's put back as fast as we can. We don't know anythingabout managing a boat out here, and see how big the waves are!"

"That's because the tide's coming in, " laughed Masters, "so if we shouldupset it'll wash us ashore. "

"I don't know, " said Max, "I'd rather not risk it; there's the undertow tocarry us out again. "

"Oh, you're a coward!" sneered Cox. 

"I'm not going to turn back yet, " said Masters; "so stick to your oar, Raymond, and if the sight of the big waves frightens you, just turn yourback to 'em. "

At that moment a hail came from a fishing-smack not far away. "Halloo!boys, you'd better put back as fast as you can; that boat's not safe, especially in the hands of such green-horns as you. "

At the same moment a big incoming wave washed over them, carrying awaytheir hats and Max's coat, which he had pulled off when taking the oar. 

Masters and Cox were now sufficiently frightened to be willing to turnback; they made the attempt at once, but found it far more difficult thanthey had anticipated. They struggled hard, and several times nearly gavethemselves up for lost; but at last, after many narrow escapes, a hugewave carried them high on to the beach, and left them there with barelystrength to crawl up out of the way of the next. 

It was a good while before they were able to do anything but lie pantingand gasping on the sand. 

Max had not been long gone when Zoe ran into the cottage of the Raymonds, to tell of a plan just set on foot in the other house to get up a partyto visit some points of interest several miles distant. 

They were to go in carriages, take a lunch with them, and not return tilllate in the afternoon, when all would dine together at Mrs. Dinsmore'stable. 

"Mamma is not going, " she said, "and offers to take care of Gracie, if thechild stays behind. Every one seems to fear the ride would be too long andwearisome for her. "

"Yes, I think so, " the captain said, fondling her, for she was sitting onhis knee. 

"I'd like to go, papa, " she said, looking up coaxingly into his face, "Ilike to go driving, and to sit on your knee. "

"And I love to have my baby girl in my arms, and to give her pleasure, " heresponded, repeating his caresses, "but I should feel very sad to see hermade sick. "

"Then I'll be good and not ask to go, papa, " she said, with a slight sigh, laying her head on his shoulder. 

"That's my dear, good little Gracie! You shall have a short drive everyday when I can manage it. Perhaps a moonlight drive along the beach, to-morrow evening. Will not that be nice?"

"Oh, ever so nice, dear papa!" she cried, clapping her hands in delight. 

"Mamma not going, Zoe!" exclaimed Violet in a tone of disappointment. "That will rob the excursion of half its charm for me. Is she not well?"

"She has a very slight headache, she says, and fears the sun wouldincrease it. Besides she is so much interested in a book she is readingthat she prefers staying at home to finish it. We had hard work topersuade grandpa to go without her, but he has consented at last; only, Ibelieve, because Grandma Rose refused to go without him, and mamma insiststhat she is in no danger of a bad headache if she keeps quiet. "

"Yes, grandpa is so fond and careful of her. "

"We have two large carriages, so that there is abundance of room foreverybody, " pursued Zoe; "and we hope, Captain, that you will let Max andLulu go. "

"Lulu shall certainly, if she chooses, " he said, turning with a kind, fatherly smile to the little girl who stood silently at his side, waitingwith a wistful, eager look, to hear if she were to be of the party, butashamed to ask the indulgence because of a vivid remembrance of her laterebellion and disgrace. 

"Oh, thank you, papa!" she cried joyously, giving him a hug and kiss. "Mamma Vi, what shall I wear?"

"Your travelling dress will be the most suitable I think, " said Violet. 

"Then I'll run and put it on, " returned Lulu, hastening away with cheerfulalacrity. 

"Max shall go too, Captain, shan't he?" queried Zoe, with whom the boy wasa great favorite. 

"He might if he were here, " the father answered; "but unfortunately he hasgone off for a long walk and may not be back before dinner-time. "

"And we must start in a few minutes, " remarked Vi; "I am really sorry, forI know Max will regret missing it. Gracie, dear, I'm going over to speakto mamma; shall I take you with me?"

"Yes, if you please, Mamma Vi, when I've kissed my dear papa good-by. "

Having done so, she took her doll in her arms and gave her hand to Violet. She felt a little lonely at the thought of being left behind, but wasquite comforted on learning that little Walter Travilla had decided tostay at home and play with her. 

The excursionists drove off, and Elsie, having provided the little oneswith amusement, gave herself up to the enjoyment of her book and aneasy-chair set where she could catch the pleasant sea breeze withoutfeeling the sun. Still, she did not forget the children, but now and thenlaid aside her book for a little, while she suggested or invented somenew game for their entertainment. 

So the morning passed quietly and pleasantly. 

It was a little past noon when, stepping out upon the veranda, she caughtsight of a forlorn figure, hatless, coatless, and dishevelled generally, yet bearing a strangely familiar look, slowly approaching the othercottage. A second glance told her who it was. 

"Max!" she exclaimed in astonishment, and forgetting all about herheadache, caught up a sunshade and hurried to meet him. 

"Max! can it be you?" she asked. "Why, my poor boy, where have you been?and what has happened to you?"

"O Grandma Elsie!" he said, looking much mortified and ready to cry, "Idid hope I'd be able to get into the house without anybody seeing me! Doyou know where my father is?"

"Yes; the two families have all gone on an excursion except Gracie, Walter, and me. But come in out of the sun, " she added, leading the wayinto the Raymonds' cottage. Max followed her, and won to confidence by hersweet and kindly sympathy, told her the whole story of his morning'sadventure. 

"O Max, my dear boy! what a narrow escape!" she said, with tears in hereyes. "What a mercy that you are alive to tell the tale! What a terrible, terrible shock it would have been to your father to learn that his onlyson was drowned! and that while in the act of disobeying him, for you sayhe bade you not to go into any danger. "

"Yes, Grandma Elsie, and if he finds it out I'll be pretty sure to get asevere flogging. I deserve it, I know; but I don't want to take it. Youwon't tell on me, will you? Perhaps he'll find it out through the loss ofthe coat and hat, but I hope he won't miss them, at I have severalothers. "

"No, Max, I shall certainly not tell on you; no one shall ever learn fromme what you have told me in confidence; but I do hope, my dear boy, thatyou will not try to deceive your kind, loving father, but will confess allto him as soon as he comes home, and patiently bear whatever punishment hesees fit to inflict. It is the only right and honorable course, Max, andwill save you a great deal of suffering from remorse and fear ofdetection. "

"But it will be dreadfully hard to confess!" sighed Max. "I believe Ireally dread that more than the flogging. "

"Yet take courage, my boy, and do it. Do not allow yourself to indulge inmoral cowardice, but dare to do right, asking help of God, who is able andwilling to give it. "

Max made no reply, but sat there before her, looking very guilty andmiserable. 

"You must be hungry, " she said presently, "and it is not easy to be braveand strong on an empty stomach. Suppose you go to your room and makeyourself neat, then come into the other house and join me and the littlefolks in a nice luncheon. "

The proposal was accepted with thankfulness. 

Max looked several degrees less miserable after satisfying his appetite, yet all the afternoon seemed restless and unhappy. 

Elsie said little to him, but many times silently lifted up her heart onhis behalf, asking that he might have strength given him to do the duty hefelt to be so difficult and painful. 

As the time drew near when the pleasure-seekers might be expected toreturn, he slipped away out of her sight. 

Presently the carriages drove up and deposited their load. Max stoodwaiting in the veranda, his heart beating very fast and loud, as hisfather, Violet, and Lulu came up the path that led from the garden-gate. 

All three greeted him affectionately, expressing their regret that he hadmissed the pleasure of the excursion; then Vi and Lulu passed into thehouse and on upstairs. 

The captain was about to follow when Max, stepping close to his side, said, with a slight tremble in his voice, "Papa, I--want to speak to you. "

"Very well, my son, say on, " answered the captain, stopping and turningtoward him. 

"It's something I want to tell you, sir, " and Max hung his head, hischeeks flushing hotly. 

His father gave him a searching look, took his hand, and led him into theparlor. 

"Don't be afraid of your father, Max, " he said kindly, "why should you?"

"Because I've been a bad boy, sir, deserving of a flogging, and expect youto give it to me, " Max burst out desperately. 

"Tell me all about it, my son, " the captain said in a moved tone, "andtell it here, " seating himself and drawing the boy to his knee. "Perhapsit will be easier. "

"Oh, yes, papa, because it makes me know you love me even if I am bad; butit makes me more ashamed and sorry for having disobeyed you, " sobbed Max, no longer able to refrain from tears as he felt the affectionate clasp ofhis father's enfolding arm. 

"Then it has a right effect. My boy, I think if you knew how much I loveyou, you would never disobey. It will be a sore trial to me, as well as toyou, if I find it my duty to inflict any severe punishment upon you. Butlet me hear your story. "

Max told it in broken accents, for he was full of remorse for havingbehaved so ill to so kind a parent. 

When he had finished there was a moment of silence. It was the captain whobroke it. 

"My boy, " he said, with emotion, "it was a really wonderful escape, and wemust thank God for it. If you had been drowned, Max, do you know that itwould have gone near to break your father's heart? To lose my first-born, my only son, and in the very act of disobedience--oh, how terrible!"

"Papa, I didn't, I really didn't think about its being disobedience when Igot into the boat, because it didn't seem dangerous till we were fairlyout among the waves. "

"Do you think I ought to excuse you on that account?"

"No, sir; you've reproved me so often for not thinking, and for not beingcareful to obey your orders; and I know I deserve a flogging. But, O papa, please don't let Mamma Vi know about it, or anybody else. Can't you takeme upstairs here when they are all in the other house?"

"I shall not use corporal punishment this time, Max, " the captain said, ina moved tone. Dressing the boy closer to his side, "I shall try freeforgiveness, for I think you are truly sorry. And then you have made sofrank and full a confession of wrong-doing, that I might perhaps neverhave discovered in any other way. "

"O papa, how good you are to me! I don't think I can ever be so mean andungrateful as to disobey you again, " exclaimed Max, feelingly. "But Idon't deserve to be praised, or let off from punishment, because ofconfessing, for I shouldn't have done it if Grandma Elsie hadn't talked tome about the duty of it, and persuaded me to take courage to do it becauseit was right. "

"Bless her for it! the dear, good woman!" the captain said, with earnestgratitude. "But I think, Max, you do deserve commendation for taking heradvice. I have something more to say to you, my son, but not now, for thecall to dinner will come directly, and I must go and prepare for it. "

There was a hearty embrace between them, and they separated, the captaingoing to his room to make his toilet and Max to the other house, where hesoon managed to let Grandma Elsie into the secret of his confession andits happy result, thanking her with tears in his eyes for her kind, wiseadvice. 

Elsie rejoiced with and for him, telling him he had made her heart gladand that she hoped he would always have courage to do right. 

As Max prepared for bed that night he was wondering to himself what morehis father had to say to him, when he heard the captain's step on thestairs, and the next moment he came in. 

Max started a little apprehensively. Could it be that his father hadchanged his mind, and was about to give him the dreaded flogging afterall?

But with one glance up into the grave yet kindly face looking down at him, all his fear vanished. He drew a long breath of relief. 

"My boy, " the captain said, laying his hand on Max's shoulder, "I told youI had something more to say to you, and I have come to say it now. You are'my first-born, my might and the beginning of my strength. ' Never untilyou are a father yourself can you know or understand the tide of love, joy, and thankfulness that swept over me at the news of your birth. Nor doyou know how often, on land and on sea, in storm and in calm, my thoughtsdwell with deep anxiety upon the future of my son, not only for time, Max, but for eternity. "

The captain paused for a moment, his emotions seemingly too big forutterance, and Max, throwing his arms around his neck, hid his face on hisbreast. 

"Papa, " he sobbed, "I didn't know you loved me so much! Oh, I wish I'dalways been a good boy!"

The captain sat down and drew him to his knee. 

"My dear son, " he said, "I have no doubt that you are sorry for every actof disobedience toward me, and I fully and freely forgive them all; butwhat I want you to consider now is your sinfulness toward God, and yourneed of forgiveness from him. You are old enough to be a Christian now, Max, and it is what I desire for you more than anything else. Think whatblessedness to be made a child of God, an heir of glory! to have Jesus, the sinner's Friend, for your own Saviour, your sins all washed away inhis precious blood, his righteousness put upon you. "

"Papa, I don't know how. "

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, ' the Biblesays. It tells us that we have all broken God's holy law, that we alldeserve his wrath and curse forever, and cannot be saved by anything thatwe can do or Buffer; but that 'God so loved the world that he gave hisonly begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish buthave everlasting life. ' He offers this salvation to us as his free gift, and so we are to take it, for we can have it in no other way. Go to God, my son, just as you have come to me, with confession of your sins andacknowledging that you deserve only punishment; but pleading for pardonthrough the blood and merits of Jesus Christ. Accept the salvation offeredyou by the Lord Jesus, giving yourself to him to be his, his only forever. 'Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, togive repentance to Israel and remission of sins, ' and he will give them toyou if you ask for them with all your heart. He says, 'Him that cometh tome, I will in no wise cast out. ' My son, my dear son, will not you comenow? God's time is always _now_, and only the present is ours. "

"Papa, I will try; I am sorry for my sins against God, and I do want tobelong to him. Papa, won't you pray for me?"

They knelt down together, and with his son's hand in his the captainpoured out a fervent prayer on the boy's behalf, of confession andentreaty for pardon and acceptance in the name and for the sake of Him"who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for ourjustification. "

Then, with a silent, tender embrace he left him. 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

 "Home again, home again, from a foreign shore, And oh it fills my soul with Joy to see my friends once more. "

The rest of the summer and early fall passed delightfully to oursojourners by the sea; though the happiness of the captain and Violet wassomewhat marred by the knowledge that soon they must part for a season ofgreater or less duration, he to be exposed to all the dangers of thetreacherous deep. 

But they did not indulge in repining or lose the enjoyment of the presentin vexing thoughts concerning the probable trials of the future. 

It was necessary, however, to give it some consideration, and makearrangements in regard to his children. 

Thinking of the guidance and control they all needed, the temper andstubbornness Lulu had shown, the watchful care requisite for Gracie in herfeeble state, he hesitated to ask Mrs. Dinsmore and Elsie if they stillfelt inclined to undertake the charge of them. 

But to his great relief and gratitude, those kind friends did not wait forhim to broach the subject, but renewed their offer, saying they hadbecome much attached to the children, and desired more than ever to givethem a happy home with themselves; upon the conditions formerly stated, namely, that he would delegate his authority to them during his absence, and give the children distinctly to understand that he had done so. 

These conditions the captain gladly accepted. He told the children allabout the arrangement he had made for them, and in the presence of thewhole family, bade them obey Mr. And Mrs. Dinsmore, Grandma Elsie andMamma Vi as they would himself. 

"One master and three mistresses!" Edward remarked lightly; "are you notimposing rather hard conditions, Captain?"

"No, I think not, Ned, for I am satisfied that their commands will neverconflict; but should they do so, Mr. Dinsmore, as patriarch of the wholetribe, is of course the highest authority. "

It had been decided that Harold and Herbert should now enter college. Theothers, on being left by the captain, would all return to Ion and spendthe winter there or at Viamede. Edward would take charge of the Ionplantation, his grandfather giving him some slight supervision at thestart. 

This arrangement would leave Mr. Dinsmore almost without employment, and, as he liked to be busy, he said he would gladly act the part of tutor toMax, and also hear some of the recitations of Rosie and Lulu. GrandmaElsie and Mamma Vi would for the present undertake the rest of the work ofeducating the girls and little Walter. 

Their plans settled, they gave themselves up to quiet enjoyment of eachother's society while Capt. Raymond waited for orders. 

Early in October there came a great and joyful surprise. A train hadsteamed into the neighboring depôt a few moments before, but as they werenot looking for any addition to their party, no one had taken particularnote of the fact. 

But a carriage came driving from that direction, and drew up before thegate of Mr. Dinsmore's cottage, where the whole family were gathered. 

A gentleman hastily alighted, handed out a lady; a servant-womanfollowed--having first handed him an odd-looking, rather large bundle, which he received with care--then turned to collect packages and parcels, while the other two hurried to the house, the lady a little in advance. 

"Elsie!" was the simultaneous exclamation of many voices in varied tonesof astonishment and delight, and the next instant there was a wonderfulconfusion of greetings and embraces mingled with tears of joy andthankfulness. 

Lester and his wife had been heard from frequently during the past months, their letters always cheerful and full of bright hopes and anticipations, but containing no hint of any intention of returning to America before thecoming spring. 

As they afterward explained, it had been a very sudden resolve, caused bya severe fit of homesickness, and there really was no time to write. 

Lester shared the joyous welcome given to Elsie; the servant woman havingrelieved him of his bundle, of which, in their joyous excitement, no onehad taken particular notice. 

Only waiting, a trifle impatiently, till the greetings and introductionswere over, Elsie Leland took it from her, and with a proud, happy, yettearful smile laid it--a lovely sleeping babe--in her mother's arms. 

"Our boy, mother dear. We have named him for his grandpa--EdwardTravilla. "

Elsie Travilla folded the child to her heart, kissed it softly, tenderly, the great silent tears rolling down her cheeks. 

"Ah, could he but have seen it! our first grandchild, " she sighed. 

Then, wiping away her tears, and sending a glance of mingled joy andmaternal pride around the little circle, she folded the babe stillcloser, saying, with an arch, sweet smile, "Ah, no one now can deny that Iam in very truth Grandma Elsie!"

THE END. 

 * * * * *

=THE MERRY LYNN SERIES=

By HARRIET PYNE GROVE Cloth Bound. Jackets in Colors. 

 * * * * *

The charm of school and camp life, out-door sports and European travel isfound in these winning tales of Merilyn and her friends at boarding schooland college. These realistic stories of the everyday life, the fun, frolicand special adventures of the Beechwood girls will be enjoyed by all girlsof high school age. 

 MERILYN ENTERS BEECHWOLD MERILYN AT CAMP MEENAHGA MERILYN TESTS LOYALTY MERILYN'S NEW ADVENTURE MERILYN FORRESTER, CO-ED. THE "MERRY LYNN" MINE

 * * * * *

A. L. BURT COMPANY, _Publishers_

114-120 EAST 23rd STREET NEW YORK

[Illustration]

=The Ann Sterling Series=

By HARRIET PYNE GROVE

Stories of Ranch Life and Adventure. For Girls 12 to 16 Years. 

Handsome Cloth Binding with Attractive Jackets in Color

 * * * * *

 ANN STERLING THE COURAGE OF ANN ANN AND THE JOLLY SIX ANN CROSSES A SECRET TRAIL ANN'S SEARCH REWARDED ANN'S AMBITIONS

 * * * * *

For sale by all booksellers, or sent on receipt of price by the Publishers

=A. L. BURT COMPANY, 114-120 E. 23d St. , NEW YORK=

 * * * * *

[Illustration]

=MARJORIE DEAN=

=POST-GRADUATE=

=SERIES=

By PAULINE LESTER

Author of the Famous Marjorie Dean High School and College Series. 

All Cloth Bound. Copyright Titles. 

_With Individual Jackets in Colors. _

 MARJORIE DEAN, POST GRADUATE MARJORIE DEAN, MARVELOUS MANAGER MARJORIE DEAN AT HAMILTON ARMS MARJORIE DEAN'S ROMANCE MARJORIE DEAN MACY

 * * * * *

For sale by all booksellers, or sent on receipt of price by the Publishers

=A. L. BURT COMPANY, 114-120 E. 23d St. , NEW YORK=