"I suppose that's so," Lulu answered, with a little impatient shrug of
her shoulders; "but I wish it wasn't." Then, turning abruptly away, "Max
and Gracie," she called to her brother and sister, "papa says we may go
and gather up any books and toys we want to take with us."

The three ran off together in high glee. The ladies stayed a little
longer, deep in consultation about necessary arrangements which must
fall to their share: then dispersed to their several apartments, with
the exception of Violet, who, forbidden to exert herself, remained where
she was till joined by her husband, when he had finished and despatched
his letter. It was great happiness to them to be together after their
long separation.

Mr. Dinsmore and Edward had walked out into the avenue, and were seated
under a tree in earnest conversation.

"Talking tiresome business, I suppose," remarked Zoe, in a half-petulant
tone, glancing toward them as she spoke, and apparently addressing
Violet, as she was the only other person on the veranda at the moment.

"Yes, no doubt; but we must have patience with them, dear, because it
is very necessary," Violet answered, with a smile. "Probably they are
discussing the question how the plantation is to be attended to in their
absence. You know it won't take care of itself, and the men must have a
head to direct their labors."

"Oh yes, of course; and for that reason Ned is kept ever so busy while
we are here, and I do think it will be delightful to get away to the
seashore with him, where there will be nothing to do but enjoy
ourselves."