"Yes, we may as well begin there to make our circuit of the house," said his father; and they all hastened up the stairway to the apartments of Lucilla and Grace.
"I think Polly is glad to see us," said Elsie, as they stood for a moment watching her while she ate.
"A good deal more pleased to see and taste the cracker," said her father. "I doubt if parrots ever have much affection to bestow on anyone."
"Well, Polly," said Lulu, "nobody cares particularly for your affection; but in spite of your coldness and indifference, you shall have plenty to eat."
"Your rooms are in good order, daughters," said the captain, glancing about them. "I think Christine is an excellent housekeeper."
"So do I, father," said Lucilla. "We have only to unpack our trunks and put their contents in their proper places, and all will be as neat and orderly as before we left home."
"Yes, but we are going to visit the other parts of the house first," said Grace; "or we'll have to do it alone, which wouldn't be half so much fun as going along with papa and the rest."
They finished their inspection quickly, then set to work at their unpacking and arranging, laughing and chatting merrily as they worked.
Violet, in her rooms, with Elsie and Ned to help or hinder, was busied in much the same manner. The captain was in the library examining letters and periodicals which had accumulated during his absence, when he was interrupted by the announcement that Mr. Dinsmore had called to see him.
"Mr. Dinsmore?" he said inquiringly.