Edward and Zoe, too, and probably some of the others, would visit there.
All necessary arrangements had been made, and they were to start the next day, when at last letters were received from Capt. Raymond.
Lulu's heart beat very fast at sight of them. She had been full of delight at the prospect of her Northern trip, especially the visit to be paid with Evelyn to her former home; the latter having in their private talks dwelt much upon its many attractions, and the life she had led there in the sweet companionship of her beloved father.
"Would there be any thing in papa's letter to prevent the carrying out of the cherished plans?" Lulu asked herself as, in fear and trembling, she watched Violet opening with eager fingers the packet handed her at the breakfast-table.
Max and Gracie, too, looked on with interest quite equal to Lulu's; but in their case there was only joyous expectancy unmingled with dread.
"There is something for each of us, as usual," Violet said presently, with a smiling glance from one to another,—"Max, Lulu, Gracie, and myself."
Lulu received hers,—only a folded slip of paper,—and, asking to be excused, stole away to the privacy of her own room to read it.
"MY DEAR LITTLE DAUGHTER [it ran],—The story of your misconduct has given a very sad heart to the father who loves you so dearly. I forgive you, my child, but can no longer let you remain at Ion to be a trouble and torment to our kind friends there. I shall remove you elsewhere as soon as I can settle upon a suitable place. In the mean time, if you are truly sorry for the past, you will, I am sure, earnestly strive to be patient, submissive and obedient to those who have you in charge.
"Your loving father,