"O Levis, so soon!" she said tremulously, looking up at him with eyes full of tears, then her head dropped upon his shoulder, and the tears began to fall.
He soothed her with caresses and low-breathed words of endearment; of hope, too, that the separation might not be a long one.
"What is it, Max?" whispered Lulu, "has papa got his orders?"
"Yes; and has to be off in less than three days," replied Max, in husky tones, and hastily brushing away a tear.
Lulu's eyes filled, but by a great effort she kept the tears from falling.
The captain turned toward them. "We are going into the other house, children," he said. "You can come with us if you wish."
"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir," they said, and Grace ran to her father and put her hand in his.
They found the Dinsmore and Travilla family all assembled in the parlor, discussing plans for the day, all of which were upset by the captain's news.
His ship lay in Boston harbor, and it was promptly decided that they would all leave to-day for that city, only a few hours' distant.
As the cottages had been rented furnished, and all had for days past held themselves in readiness for sudden departure, this would afford ample time for the necessary packing and other arrangements.