"It is flattering to my vanity and self-appreciation to learn that you have missed me," she returned sportively, but with a slightly heightened color.
"You can never be away from the rest of us without being missed, Vi," remarked Rosie; "especially now that Sister Elsie is away."
"And do you not mean to gratify my curiosity as to what has been the cause of your many and prolonged absences, Miss Violet?" queried the captain.
"I have been busy elsewhere, sir. But is it not an understood thing that curiosity is a peculiarly feminine trait?"
"I am able to plead guiltless to the charge of ever having made such an insinuation," said the captain; "and do now confess to having a full share of inquisitiveness."
"May I tell, Vi?" asked Rosie.
"We must first learn whether Captain Raymond can keep a secret," Vi answered, glancing at him with a saucy smile.
"Yes, indeed!" he said, "as you shall learn if you will but allow me the opportunity."
"Then I may tell I!" cried Rosie; and hardly waiting for her sister's nod of acquiescence, went on. "She is preparing such a nice surprise for dear mamma, Captain Raymond, a miniature of papa which she has been painting on ivory. I think it looks more like him than any photograph or painted portrait that we have. And I am sure mamma could not have a more acceptable present. Besides that, Vi has painted two flower-pieces; one for grandpa and one for grandma."
"You have certainly been very industrious, Miss Violet," he remarked. "I have heard your studio spoken of. May I hope for the pleasure of visiting it when I recover the free use of my limbs?"