y, looking up at him with eyes full
of tears, then her head dropped upon his shoulder, and the tears began to
fall.

He soothed her with caresses and low-breathed words of endearment; of
hope, too, that the separation might not be a long one.

"What is it, Max?" whispered Lulu, "has papa got his orders?"

"Yes; and has to be off in less than three days," replied Max, in husky
tones, and hastily brushing away a tear.

Lulu's eyes filled, but by a great effort she kept the tears from falling.

The captain turned toward them. "We are going into the other house,
children," he said. "You can come with us if you wish."

"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir," they said, and Grace ran to her father and put
her hand in his.

They found the Dinsmore and Travilla family all assembled in the parlor,
discussing plans for the day, all of which were upset by the captain's
news.

His ship lay in Boston harbor, and it was promptly decided that they would
all leave to-day for that city, only a few hours' distant.

As the cottages had been rented furnished, and all had for days past held
themselves in readiness for sudden departure, this would afford ample time
for the necessary packing and other arrangements.

All was presently bustle and activity in both houses. Zoe and Edward, with
no painful parting in prospect, made themselves very merry over their
packing. They were much like two children, and except when overcome by the
recollection of her recent bereavement, Zoe was as playful and frolicsome
as a kitten.

"Can I help, Mamma Vi?" asked Lulu, following Violet into her
dressing-room.

Vi considered a moment. "You are a dear child to want to help," she said,
smiling kindly upon the little girl. "I don't think you can pack your
trunk, but you can be of use here by handing me things out of the bureau
drawers and wardrobe. There are so many trunks to pack that I cannot think
of leaving Agnes to do it all."

"My dear," said the captain, coming in at that moment, "you are not to do
anything but sit in that easy-chair and give directions. I flatter myself
that I am quite an expert in this line."

"Can you fold ladies' dresses so that they will carry without rumpling?"
asked Violet, looking up at him with a saucy smile.

"Perhaps not. I can't say I ever tried that. Agnes may do that part of the
work, and I will attend to the rest."

"And may I hand you the things, papa?" asked Lulu.

"Yes, daughter," he said, "I like to see you try