As he paused to turn a leaf, "Papa," she said, glancing off down the
bayou, "there is a steamer coming, the same that brought us, I think; and
see, it is rounding to at our landing. Can it be bringing us a guest?"

"Yes, a gentleman is stepping ashore. Why, daughter, it is Harold
Allison."

"Harold! oh, how delightful!" And rising they hastened to meet and welcome
him with truly Southern warmth of hospitality.

"Harold! how good of you!" cried Elsie. "Mamma wrote us that you were
somewhere in this region, and if I'd had your address, I should have sent
you an invitation to come and stay as long as possible."

"And you have done well and kindly by us to come without waiting for
that," Mr. Dinsmore said, shaking the hand of his young brother-in-law
with a warmth of cordiality that said more than his words.

"Many thanks to you both," he answered gayly. "I was conceited enough to
feel sure of a welcome, and did not wait, as a more modest fellow might,
to be invited. But what a lovely place! a paradise upon earth! And, Elsie,
you, in those dainty white robes, look the fit presiding genius."

Elsie laughed and shook her head. "Don't turn flatterer, Harold; though I
do not object to praise of Viamede."

"I have not heard from Rose in a long time," he said, addressing Mr.
Dinsmore. "She and the little folks are well, I hope?"