The three had followed their father to a portion of the deck at some little distance from the rest of the party, so that their talk was not overheard by them.
"A squadron?" repeated Grace. "What is that? Oh, it's a good many ships belonging together,—isn't it, Papa?"
"That will answer very well for a definition, or description," he replied.
"Oh, how glad I am!" exclaimed Lulu, clapping her hands in delight. "And will they go through all their manœuvres, Papa?"
"As I am not the admiral whose orders are to be obeyed, I cannot say exactly what will be done, my child," the Captain replied. "I can only say I intend to have you in the vicinity in season to see all that may be done. Does that satisfy you?"
"Oh, yes, sir! and I thank you very, very much!" she said, taking his hand in both of hers and squeezing it affectionately.
"I too, Papa," said Grace. "I'm sure we'll enjoy it ever so much."
"I hope so," he answered. "And now can you three keep the secret from the others, that they may have a pleasant surprise?"
"If we can't, or don't, I think we ought never to be told a secret again," exclaimed Lulu, in her vehement way.