"Thank you; I'll run in and ask her," Vi said, tripping away.
Elsie accepted the invitation, remarking gayly, "I have no housekeeping cares to prevent me. I'm just a daughter at home in her father's house," giving him a loving look and smile, "as I used to be in the glad, free days of my girlhood."
The captain came down with Gracie in his arms, hers about his neck, her little pale face on his shoulder. She looked thin and weak, but very happy.
Grandma Elsie and Mamma Vi greeted her with loving inquiries and tender kisses.
"Do you feel strong enough for the drive, dear?" asked the former.
"Yes, ma'am; with papa to hold me in his strong arms."
"Papa's dear baby girl!" murmured the captain low and tenderly, imprinting a gentle kiss on the pale forehead.
Mr. Dinsmore came over, handed the ladies and Lulu into the carriage, then held Gracie till her father was seated in it and ready to take her again.
It was a bright, fair morning with a delicious breeze from the sea, and all enjoyed the drive greatly, unless perhaps Lulu, who had not yet recovered her good humor. She sat by her father's side, scarcely speaking, but no one seemed to notice it.
Gracie was asleep when they returned, and her father carried her up to her room and laid her down so gently that she did not wake.