"Foolish child!" he said, with a happy laugh, holding her close; "think
what you would lose: the sea voyage in the pleasantest of company--"

"No; the pleasantest company would be left behind if you were," she
interrupted.

"Well, very delightful company," he resumed; "then I don't know how many
weeks of the oppressive heat here you would have to endure, instead of
enjoying the cool, refreshing breezes sweeping over Nantucket. Surely,
you cannot give it all up without a sigh?"

"I can't give up the thought of enjoying it all with you without
sighing, and crying, too, maybe," she answered, smiling through tears;
"but I'd sigh and cry ten times as much if I had to go and leave you
behind. No, Mr. Travilla, you needn't indulge the hope of getting rid of
me for even a week. I'm determined to stay where you stay, and go only
where you go."

"Dreadful fate!" he exclaimed. "Well, little wife, I shall do my best to
avert the threatened disappointment of your hopes of a speedy departure
out of this heated atmosphere and a delightful sea voyage to that famous
island. Now, I must leave you and begin at once my search for a
substitute as manager of the plantation."

"Oh, I do hope you will succeed!" she said. "Shall I go on with my
packing?"

"Just as you please, my dear; perhaps it would be best; as otherwise you
may be hurried with it if we are able to go with the others."