ffection.

"Nor would I exchange my son for any other; not even a better one,"
returned the captain laughingly, tightening his clasp of the sturdy
brown hand he held.

"I haven't heard yet the story of yesterday's success in boating and
fishing; come sit down here by my side and let me have it."

Max obeyed, nothing loath, for he was becoming quite expert in both, and
always found in his father an interested listener to the story of his
exploits.

He and the other lads had returned from their camping at the time of the
removal of the family party from 'Sconset to Nantucket Town.

On the conclusion of his narrative the captain pronounced it breakfast
time, and they returned to the house.

After breakfast, as nearly the whole party were gathered upon the porch,
discussing the question what should be the amusements of the day, a near
neighbor with whom they had some acquaintance, ran in to ask if they
would join a company who were going over to Shimmo to have a clam-bake.

"The name of the place is new to me," remarked Mr. Dinsmore. "Is it a
town, Mrs. Atwood?"

"Oh, no," replied the lady, "there is only one dwelling; a farmhouse
with its barns and other out-houses comprises the whole place. It is on
the shore of the harbor some miles beyond Nantucket Town. It is a
pleasant spot, and I think we shall have an enjoyable time; particularly
if I can persuade you all to go."

"A regular New England clam-bake!" said Elsie, "I should really like to
attend one, and am much obliged for your invitation, Mrs. Atwood; as we
all are, I am sure."

No one felt disposed to decline the invitation, and it was soon settled
that all would go.

The clam-bake was to occupy only the afternoon; so they would have time
to make all necessary arrangements, and for the customary surf and
still baths.

Mrs. Atwood had risen to take leave. "Ah," she said, "I was near
forgetting something I meant to say: we never dress for these
expeditions, but, on the contrary, wear the oldest and shabbiest dresses
we have; considering them altogether the most suitable to the occasion,
as then we need not be troubled if they should be wet with spray or
soiled by contact with seaweed, grass, or anything else."

"A very sensible custom," Mrs. Dinsmore responded, "and one which we
shall all probably follow."

Mrs. Atwood had hardly reached the gate when Lulu, turning to her father
with a very discontented face, exclaimed, "I don't want to wear a shabby