"Why? didn't you enjoy yourself at Ion?"
"Yes; but I believe I'm a little bit tired now."
"Tired?"
"Yes; of being with so many folks. It's nice for a while, but after that it sort of wears me out; and I'm glad to get back to my own dear home where I can be just as quiet as ever I please."
"Oh, there is papa!" exclaimed Lulu, turning her head and seeing him standing in the open doorway.
He was smiling on his darlings, thinking what a pretty picture they made—the little slender figure on the rug with the kitten closely cuddled in its arms, the golden head lying in Lulu's lap, while her blooming face bent tenderly over it, one hand toying with its soft ringlets.
"Tired, Gracie, my pet?" he asked, coming forward and stooping to scan the small pale face in loving solicitude.
"Only a little, dear papa," she answered, with a patient smile up into his face. "I think I shall be quite rested by to-morrow morning, and I'm so glad we're at home again."
"Yes; and just now the best place in it for my weary little girl is her bed. Lulu and I will get you there as soon as we can."
"Mustn't I stay up for prayers?"