ict, which was altogether favourable, then
directed an envelope, placed the note in it, and sealed it, saying,
"There! it is all ready to go early to-morrow morning, and will be no
hindrance to me in getting ready for the shopping expedition."

"Which, perhaps, you will enjoy nearly as much as the boating party,"
remarked Violet in a jesting tone.

"Probably more," responded Lucilla; "at least if we are successful in
finding very suitable and handsome wedding gifts for Rosie. Father, how
much may I spend on one?"

"I think not more than a hundred dollars."

"Oh! may I have so much as that for it? You dear, good papa!" she
exclaimed.

"I am well able to afford it," he returned pleasantly, "and should be
sorry to let my daughters give other than valuable wedding gifts to my
wife's sister."

"Thank you, my dear," said Violet with a gratified look. "I have no
doubt Rosie will appreciate your and your daughter's kindness, as she
certainly ought to."

"Grandma Elsie has been very, very kind to us," said Lucilla, and her
father added:

"She has, indeed! I can never forget how kindly she took my children in
when I was unable to provide them with a good and happy home."

"Hark! I hear carriage wheels on the drive; we are going to have
callers," exclaimed Lucilla, and, as she spoke, they all rose and went
out upon the veranda to receive their guests.

They proved to be Maud, Sydney, and Frank Dinsmore, from the Oaks; and,
when greetings had been exchanged, they said their errand was to speak
of the boating party, and ask if Grace could go; also if Lucilla had
received Chester's invitation and meant to accept it. Chester would have
come himself but had an unavoidable business engagement for the evening.

"I have given Lucilla permission to go," the captain replied, "but Grace
is not strong enough for the exertion she would be likely to make
without her father at hand to caution and care for her."

"Oh, I am sorry!" said Maud. "I hoped Gracie could go and would enjoy
it. But I am glad we may tell Chester that Lu can."

"I have written my acceptance of his kind invitation," Lulu said, "and
will send it in the morning."

"Captain," said Frank, "if you will let Miss Grace go I promise to take
all possible care of her. Won't it seem a trifle hard to her to have to
stay at home while her sister and the rest of us are having such a good
time?"

"I think not," the captain answered. "Grace is the best and most dutiful
o