“Yes; and afterward too. But we mustn’t be selfish, and perhaps he would be disappointed if his friend shouldn’t come.”
“Oh, I hadn’t thought of that! And if papa would rather have him come, I hope he will.”
“Of course you do. Ah, here comes papa now,” as a tall, remarkably fine-looking man, of decidedly military bearing, entered the room and came smilingly toward them.
“Good, punctual children,” he said. “I hope you have been enjoying yourselves since we parted?”
“Oh, yes, papa,” they answered, speaking both at once; “we did all our errands, and are ready to go home.”
“The train is just due,” he said, consulting his watch. “Ah, here it comes,” as its rush and roar smote upon their ears.
Lulu sprang up hastily.
“Wait a little, daughter,” the captain said, laying a gently detaining hand on her shoulder; “we need not be in haste, as we are not going on the train.”
“Everybody else seems to be hurrying out, papa,” she said.
“Yes; they are probably passengers. Ah, the train has arrived and come to a standstill, so we will go now. Max, you may help your sister into the carriage, while I look about for our expected guest.”