“Agreed!” said Violet, and they all went gaily up stairs together.
“Some one seems to have already made a selection for you, Lulu,” remarked the captain as they entered her room, passing into it before going into Gracie’s.
“Why, so they have!” she exclaimed, running up to the bed. “Oh, what a lovely new white dress! an elegant sash too! Papa, are they presents from you?”
He nodded assent as she ran into his arms to hug and kiss him by way of thanks.
“Papa’s gift and papa’s taste,” said Violet. “He made the purchase entirely alone, and I must acknowledge that I could not have done better myself,” she added laughingly.
“They’re just as beautiful as they can be!” said Lulu, examining them again; “such lovely embroidery! and the very handsomest sash I ever saw.”
“Really, I feel encouraged to try again one of these days,” laughed her father.
“I hope Gracie has the same,” said Lulu, looking up inquiringly into his face.
“Just the same, except the color of the sash,” he replied. “I think she will find them on the bed in her room. Now I will leave you to put on your new finery, and when you are both dressed, come to me in the library and let me see how you look.”
“Oh, just wait a minute and let me hug you once more, you dearest, kindest papa!” cried Lulu, running to him again.