Dr. Harold was with them there, and on being questioned spoke in a cheerful, hopeful way of his patient.
“I left her asleep,” he said, “and looking very peaceful and comfortable, the bit lassie reposing by her side. The nurse seems a capable one and I think will take the best care of both mother and babe.”
“When can we see it, Uncle Harold?” asked little Elsie.
“After its mother wakes yours or mine will probably carry it out into the dressing-room for a few minutes, and then if you two will engage to be very quiet you may go in there and take a peep at the little nameless stranger,” replied the doctor.
“Nameless!” exclaimed Elsie. “Oh, Brother Max, what are you going to name it?”
“Its mother shall name it. I am sure she has the best right,” replied Max.
“So I think,” said his father. “Violet, my dear, how soon will you be ready for our trip down the river?”
“I think I can make ready in an hour or two at any time,” Violet answered with a smile.
“Oh, father, don’t think of leaving us!” exclaimed Max. “I am absolutely hungry for a good visit with you; and you have had sea air for months past. Besides, there is plenty of room here, and of everything else that is wanted. I hope you will all stay until Eva and I are ready to go.”
“Thank you, my son,” the captain said, giving Max a look of fatherly pride and pleasure; “a few weeks of your society will be far from disagreeable to your old father. So, Violet,” turning to her, “shall we accept his invitation?”