Everybody had a kindly greeting for the captain, and Violet's bright face
grew still brighter as she made room for him on the sofa by her side.
"We were beginning to wonder what was keeping you," she said.
"Yes, I'm afraid I am rather behind time," he returned. "I hope you have
not delayed your tea for me, Mrs. Dinsmore."
"No; it is but just ready," she said. "Ah, there's the bell. Please, all
of you walk out."
When the meal was over all returned to the parlor, where they spent the
next hour in desultory chat.
Gracie claimed a seat on her father's knee. Lulu took possession of an
ottoman and pushed it up as close to his side as she could; then seating
herself on it leaned up against him.
He smiled and stroked her hair, then glanced about the room in search of
Max.
The boy was sitting silently in a corner, but reading an invitation in his
father's eyes, he rose and came to his other side.
The ladies were talking of the purchases they wished to make in Boston,
New York or Philadelphia, on their homeward route.
"I must get winter hats for Lulu and Gracie," said Violet.
"I want a bird on mine, Mamma Vi," said Lulu; "a pretty one with gay
feathers.
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