"Truly, I think no man ever had a more lovable child, or a more grateful and appreciative one." Those words sent a thrill of exquisite delight to Lulu's heart.

"Dear papa, you are so kind to tell me that!" she said.

"Oh, I do want always to be all that to you!" "And it is certainly my ardent desire to be the best of fathers to my dear eldest daughter, and all my children," he responded.
"But now let us set to work upon this correspondence." For the next hour and more they were very busy; then, every letter having been replied to, the captain went out to a distant part of the plantation to see how work was progressing there, taking Lulu along.
Their way led them through the orange orchard, and both father and daughter found it a delightful walk.
They reached the house again just in time to receive the others on their return from their little excursion, and presently after, all sat down to dinner.
On leaving the table the little girls repaired to the veranda.
"I'm decidedly offended with you, Lu," said Rosie, in jesting tone.
"What for ?" asked Lulu.
"For forsaking us as you did this morning; and now the least reparation you can make is to confess why you did so.

Do you not agree with me, Eva ?" "Yes," replied Evelyn, "I think she ought to do so, as the only amends she can make.

So, Miss Raymond, let us hear your excuse at once--if you have any." "Well, then, I suppose I must," said Lulu.