"Orders, my son?" asked the Captain, when Max had opened it and glanced over the contents.
"Yes, sir; I am to go immediately to Washington, upon the expiration of my leave which will be about the time the rest of you set sail in the 'Dolphin.'"
The announcement seemed quite a damper upon the previous high spirits of the little company, and there were many expressions of disappointment and regret.
"Well," said Chester, getting on his feet as he spoke, "I must go home now; there is a little matter in regard to one of my cases that must be attended to at once, since I am likely to leave the neighborhood so soon."
"And if my husband goes, I must go, too," said Lucilla, in a lively tone, rising and taking up the wrap she had thrown off on coming into the warm room.
"It is near the dinner hour; you would better stay, all of you, and dine with us," said the Captain.
All thanked him, but declined, each having some special reason for wishing to go home at that particular time.
"Well, come in and share a meal with us whenever you will," said the Captain. "I think you know, one and all, that you are heartily welcome."
"Yes, father, we do," said Max, "and we are always glad when you care to breakfast, dine, or sup with us."
"Any of us but papa?" asked Ned.