"I am not so sure of that," he said with a smile. "But it is very well for my daughters to think so."
"I do, papa," said Grace. "Lu can't have any more confidence in you than I have."
"Nor than I," said Evelyn. "And I am very proud of the privilege accorded me some time ago of considering you my brother, captain."
"Ah? I think I am the one to feel honored by the relationship," he returned laughingly.
"We will start for home pretty soon, father, won't we?" asked Grace.
"I presume so; we will consult the others on that subject when they come. Are you growing homesick?"
"Almost," she answered, but in a cheery tone. "I have enjoyed our outings on the Hudson and here ever so much, but ours is such a sweet home that I begin to long to see it again."
"Well, dear child, I hope to be able to gratify that wish before long," he replied in kindly, affectionate tones. "I am very glad you love your home."
"It is certainly worthy of her love," said Evelyn. "I don't know a more delightful place; yet it would not be half so charming without the dear people who live in it."
"It certainly would not be to me without the wife and children who share it with me," said the captain.