I promise to take the best of care of her, to do and say nothing of which her father would disapprove, and to bring her home safely, Providence permitting, before dark." "I have no doubt you will, Chester, and I trust her--one of my choice treasures--to you with confidence in your purpose to be the faithful guardian of her safety, and perfectly trustworthy as regards the matter of which we have been speaking," were the captain's parting words to his young visitor as he saw him out to the veranda.
"Thank you, sir; I hope to prove faithful to the trust.

Good-evening," Chester returned, then sped away down the drive.
He thought it best, as did the captain also, that Lucilla should be left in ignorance of his call.
She came downstairs when the tea bell summoned the family to partake of their evening meal, and at its conclusion all gathered upon the front veranda, as was their custom.

They had not been there very long when the Fairview carriage was seen to turn in at the great gates and come swiftly up the drive.

As it drew up before the entrance they perceived with pleasure that it contained Mr.and Mrs.Leland and Evelyn, Grandma Elsie, and Rosie.

A warm welcome was given them, all were comfortably seated--the young girls in a group together a little to one side of the older people--and soon an animated chat was being carried on by each party.
"Well, Lu," the captain presently overheard Rosie saying, "I suppose you are invited to to-morrow's picnic; I heard you were to be--you and Gracie both.