"I hope," remarked the Captain, "that some naval vessel will come within reach, so that we may have a chance to visit her in your company, Donald."
"Thank you; I would greatly enjoy so doing," Donald answered. "I suppose a visit from such a vessel is by no means rare in these parts at this time of year."
"No," the Captain replied, glancing through a window looking upon the sea, as he spoke. "Why, there is one in plain view at this moment!" he cried, starting to his feet.
They all hastily left the table and gathered upon a porch which gave them a good view of the sea and the man-of-war, hardly a mile away.
"My spy-glass, Max, my son," the Captain said.
"Here, Papa," answered Max, putting it into his father's hand. "I knew it would be wanted."
"Good boy," returned the Captain. "Ah, yes," looking through the glass, "just as I thought. It is the 'Wanita,' Captain Wade, an old friend of mine; we were boys together in the Naval Academy." His face shone with pleasure as he spoke. "We must visit her," he added, passing the glass to Donald.
Max and Lulu exchanged glances of delight,—Papa was so kind and indulgent they were almost sure he would take them along if he knew they wished to go.