“Oh, then, do please let us go that way, papa!” exclaimed Lulu, looking up at him with a very bright, eager face.
“If it suits the wishes of all the party, we will,” he answered in an indulgent tone. “What do you say to it, Mr. Austin?”
“That it suits my inclination exactly,” returned the English gentleman.
“Mine also,” added Albert, as the captain looked inquiringly at him.
“And it’s just what I’d like, too, papa,” said Max.
“And I offer my services as guide,” said Mr. Short.
“Then the question is settled in the affirmative,” Captain Raymond said. “Mr. Short, will you lead the way?”
It was just dinner-time when they reached home, the girls bright-eyed and rosy-cheeked and with hands full of flowers.
“Are you tired, daughter?” the captain asked, as Lulu was taking off her hat.
“Oh no, indeed, papa! not a bit,” she answered. “What a delightful morning we have had! Now what are we going to do this afternoon?”