"I want to, I'm sure; both to oblige you, Annis, and for my own pleasure," Elsie answered. "Oh I wish I were quite sure papa would be willing!"
"Take it for granted," said Cyril, "it's the best you can do, under the circumstances; so he surely can't be much displeased."
Still Elsie hesitated.
"Ah," said Cyril, mischievously, "is Cousin Horace so very severe! Are you afraid he will whip you?"
"No," Elsie said, reddening; "do you think so meanly of me as to suppose I obey my father only from fear of punishment?"
"No; and I beg your pardon. I know you're fond of him, too, and that you want to do right. But I have noticed that he is very polite and considerate of others, and don't you think he wishes you to be the same?"
"I know he does."
"Then surely he would tell you to go with us; because your refusal will spoil all our pleasure."
"Yes, Elsie; it was all for your sake we borrowed the canoe," said Don; "and if you refuse to go it will be a great disappointment. We wouldn't urge you if it would be disobedience; but did your father ever say you mustn't row with us on the river?"