"I have great confidence in Jed, Chester, but you will need some one to look after your clothes and oversee you in other ways."
"Isn't there any one else you can send for, papa? I don't like old maids."
"Don't trouble me with your objections, Chester. It will only be for a little while, remember. I am sure you can get along with your aunt for ten days."
"I will try to," answered the boy with a look of resignation.
The next day Miss Maria Holbrook came to Sea Spray with her brother. She was a tall, slender lady of middle age, with a thin face, and looked as if she were dissatisfied with a large proportion of her fellow-creatures.
Chester looked at her, but did not show any disposition to welcome her to the beach.
"You may kiss me, Chester," said the lady with an acid smile.
"Thank you, Aunt Maria, but I am not particular about it."
"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated the spinster. "My own brother's child, too!"