was a constant source of
surprise and chagrin to Edith to see how easily their step-mother
managed the hitherto refractory pair.

Before long the party reached the grounds. The Brenton Tennis Club was a
very attractive place. The smooth and well-kept courts stretched away to
the river, which wound and curved towards the old town, for the club was
on the outskirts of the village. The river was wider here than it was
farther up at Oakleigh, and picturesque stone bridges crossed it at
intervals.

Benches had been placed all about the grounds, from which the spectators
could watch the game, and under a marquee was a dainty table, with huge
bowls of lemonade and plates of cake. Edith presided at the tea-kettle,
looking very pretty, notwithstanding her old gown and the stormy morning
she had passed.

Mrs. Franklin, upon whom most of the Brenton people had already called,
sat on one of the benches with some friends, and was soon absorbed in
the game.

Cynthia played well. She flew about the court, here, there, everywhere
at once, never interfering with her partner's game, but, always ready
with her own play. She and Jack, though younger than the other players,
held their ground well.

It was only a small tournament, and "mixed doubles" were finished up in
one afternoon, Jack and Cynthia carrying off second prizes with great
glee.

"Just what I wanted, mamma," said Cynthia, as she displayed a fine
racket of the latest style and shape; "I hope they will have another
tournament before the summer is over, so that I'll have a chance to win
first prize with this new racket."

They were driving home in the dusk, for the game had lasted late, when
they overtook and passed a boy who was walking on the road to Oakleigh,
with a bag slung over his shoulder on a stick, while a black spaniel
trotted along at his heels. Mrs. Franklin did not see him.

"I say there, Hessie! Can't you give a fellow a lift?" he shouted.

"Why, Neal!" exclaimed Mrs. Franklin; "where did you come from? Jack,
stop, please. It is Neal! You dear boy, I am so glad to see you! This is
my brother, children; and, Neal, here are Edith, Cynthia, and Jack
Franklin."

"Whew, what a lot! I say, Hessie, what were you thinking of when you
married such a family as that? But I fancy you haven't got room for me
in there. I can walk it easily enough. Don't mind a bit."

"Nonsense! we can squeeze up," said his sister, which they did
forthwith, and Neal Gordon climbe