im--pink or blue--but which? I think I'd rather
learn you by closer observation, and you mustn't mind if I stare a good
deal for a time.

"Oh, no, people always do stare," said Hope nonchalantly, which was,
indeed, the truth. The sisters had become so used to this attention in
public that they were able to appear unconscious of it always, whether
really so or not. For, being sensible girls, they did not attribute
this at all to their fair, fresh faces, but to the resemblance between
them, enough of a novelty in this world of diversities to be always
observable.

They were well out into the Channel when summoned to luncheon, and only
waited long enough for a good look back at the beautifully wooded
shores before they went below. The first meal at sea is always an
interesting one. It is a matter of great moment to many in what part
of the saloon they will be assigned a place, and of course the special
honor of sitting at the captain's table is desired by all, though
attained by few.

As they were descending towards the cabin, to join their father, Faith,
ever thoughtful of others, said in a low voice.

"Don't you wish we could have the Vanderhoff party at our table, Hope?"

"True enough. It would be fine! Let's ask father."

"But you know he leaves all that to Mr. Malcolm, and I don't believe we
ought to meddle."

Mr. Malcolm was the head steward, and it was an excellent rule of
Captain Hosmer's to interfere as little as possible with the special
prerogatives of his officers, who in turn always tried their best to
please him. Mr. Malcolm knew his duties thoroughly, and did them.

This the girls knew, hence the disclaimer from thoughtful Faith,

"Oh dear! It would be so pleasant. And father ought to have a say
about his own table--"

"But you know he's always consulted, dear, and by this time everything
is planned."

"Well, we might be consulted, too."

"Why, Hope! When he has planned everything to make it pleasant for us."

Hope's pout died out into a shamefaced smile.

"There, there! Consider it unsaid, Miss Wisdom. Guess I can
appreciate the dear man, myself--and there he is looking for us now."

Quite over her pet, she ran to meet him, and his tender smile met their
upturned faces.

"Ah, girlies, I was just coming for you. I'll see you in to the table
and join you presently. Just now I'm busy, but Malcolm and Joey will
look after you. I didn't forget that my little girls were along w