"My dear son, I do not doubt it," Mrs. Travilla answered, turning upon her
father a half-inquiring, half-entreating look.

"If no older or more experienced person can be found."

He paused, and Elsie burst out: "O grandpa, dear grandpa, don't say that!
There is no time to lose! no time to look for other escort!"

"That is true, my child; and we will not waste any time. Make your
preparations as rapidly as you can, and if nothing better offers in the
mean while, and your mother consents to Edward's proposition, you shall go
with him--and Ben who travelled all over Europe with your father and
myself--as your protectors."

She thanked him fervently through her tears, while her mother said, "Ah
yes, that is a good thought, papa! Ben shall go with them."

"Better go now and at once select whatever you wish to take with you, and
set some one to packing your trunks," he said. "Edward, do you do
likewise, and I will examine the morning papers for information in regard
to trains and the sailing of the next steamer. Daughter dear," to Mrs.
Travilla, "you need give yourself no concern about any of these matters."

"No, I shall trust everything to you, my best of fathers, and go back at
once to my sick darlings," she said, giving him a look of grateful love.

Then passing her arm affectionately about her daughter's waist, she drew
her on toward the house, her father and son accompanying them.