He thought Lester Leland a man to be envied, yet perhaps less so than he who should secure for his own the fair, sweet maiden riding by his side.
They passed a pleasant hour at Roselands, seeing all the family except the invalid, then rode on to the Oaks, where they found a warm welcome and most delightful and hospitable entertainment.
Then the return to Ion by moonlight was very enjoyable.
It was still early when they arrived; the two older ladies awaited them in the parlor, and some time was spent in pleasant converse before retiring for the night.
"I have not yet had the pleasure of seeing my little favorites, Rosie and Walter, Cousin Elsie," remarked Donald.
"No," she said, "and they are very eager for an interview with you.

They are in bed now, but I hope they will be well enough to join us at breakfast to-morrow." "They have been quite sick ?" "Yes, were dangerously ill for a time, and though about again, still need constant care lest they should take cold." The guests given adjoining rooms, opened the door of communication between and had a little private chat together before seeking their pillows.
"These relatives of yours, Keith, are extremely nice people," remarked the captain.
"Of course they are," returned Donald, "relatives to be proud of." "I never saw a more beautiful woman than Mrs.Travilla," pursued the captain.

"I think I may say never one so beautiful; and the most charming part of it is beauty that will last; beauty of heart and intellect.

Can she be Miss Violet's own mother?
There is a resemblance, though their styles of beauty are quite different, but there does not seem to be sufficient difference in age." "She _is_ own mother, though, and not only to Violet, but to two older ones--a son and daughter." The captain expressed great surprise.

"But youthful looks must be a family characteristic," he added meditatively.