"I think it would be ever so nice!" Rosie exclaimed. "Oh, grandpa and
mamma, do say yes!"

"I shall not oppose it, my dear," Elsie said; "indeed, I think it may
perhaps be our best plan. How does it strike you, father?"

"Favorably," he replied, "if we can get the yacht. Do you know of one
that might be hired, captain?"

"I do, sir; a very fine one. I have done with it as with the
cottage--partially engaged it--feeling pretty sure you would all
fall in with my views."

"Captain," cried Zoe, "you're just a splendid man! I know of only one
that's more so," with a laughing look at her husband.

The captain bowed his acknowledgments. "As high praise as I could
possibly ask, my dear sister. I trust that one may always stand first in
your esteem."

"He always will," said Zoe; "but," with another glance, arch and
smiling, into Edward's eyes, "don't tell him, lest he should grow
conceited and vain."

"Don't tell him, because it would be no news," laughed Edward, gazing
with fondness and admiration at the blooming face of the loved
flatterer.

The talk went on about the yacht, and before they left the table the