"Oh, yes, indeed; nothing else could have made me so very, very glad!" she cried, hugging him close, and giving and receiving many tender caresses.
"But how did it happen. Levis?" Violet was asking.
"Through some unlooked-for change in the plans and purposes of the higher powers," he answered, lightly. "My orders were countermanded, with no reasons given, and I may remain with my family till further orders; and, as you say, we will hope it may be months before they are received."
"And you were glad to come back to us?" Violet said, inquiringly, but with not a shade of doubt in her tones.
"Yes, yes indeed; I was full of joy till I heard that one of my children had been disobeying me, bringing serious consequences upon herself and others."
His countenance had grown very grave and stern. "Where is Lulu?" he asked, glancing about in search of her.
"Down on the beach with mamma and the rest," Violet answered.
"Can you give me a true and full account of her behavior since I have been away?" he asked.
"My dear husband," Violet said, entreatingly, "please do not ask me."
"Pardon me, dearest," he returned. "I should not have asked you; Lulu must tell me herself; thankful I am that many and serious as are her faults, she is yet so honest and truthful that I can put full confidence in her word and feel sure that she will not deceive me, even to save herself from punishment."