my dear eldest daughter with me on this first sleigh-ride of the
season," returned her father, drawing her into a closer embrace.

"And it would spoil all the fun for me to have you left at home, Lu,"
said Grace.

"And that must not be; we will all go, and I trust will have a very
pleasant time," the captain said, rising and taking a hand of each to
lead them down to the breakfast-room, for the bell was ringing.

At Ion the family were gathering about the table to partake of their
morning meal. Walter waited rather impatiently till the blessing had
been asked, then, with an entreating look at his mother, said, "Mamma,
you know what you promised?"

"Yes, my son; but be patient a little longer. I see your grandpa has
something to say."

"Something that Walter will be glad to hear, I make no doubt," remarked
Mr. Dinsmore, giving the child a kindly look and smile. "Capt. Raymond
and I have had a little chat through the telephone this morning. He
invites us all to join the Woodburn family in a sleigh-ride, he is
coming for us in an omnibus sleigh; and I accepted for each and every
one of you."

Zoe, Rosie and Walter uttered a simultaneous exclamation of delight,
while the others looked well pleased with the arrangement.

"At what hour are we to expect the captain?" asked Mrs. Dinsmore.