afternoon. In the evening they were ready for another romp in which the
girls might have a share; so Stage Coach, Blind-man's Buff, and similar
games were in vogue.

They had been very merry and entirely harmonious, but at length a slight
dispute arose, and Capt. Raymond, sitting in an adjoining room
conversing with the older guests and members of the family, yet not
inattentive to what was going on among the young folks--heard Lulu's
voice raised to a higher than its ordinary key.

He rose, stepped to the communicating door, and called in a low tone,
grave but kindly, "Lulu!"

"Sir," she answered, turning her face in his direction.

"Come here, daughter," he said; "I want you."

She obeyed promptly, though evidently a trifle unwillingly.

He took her hand and led her out into the hall, and on into a small
reception room, bright and cheery with light and fire, but quite
deserted.

"What do you want me for, papa?" she asked. "Please don't keep me long;
because we were just going to begin a new game."

He took possession of an easy chair, and drawing her into his arms, and
touching his lips to her cheek, "Can you not spare a few minutes to your
father when your mates have had you all day?" he asked.