what is going to be done to rescue their father."

It was impossible to refuse an invitation given with such heart,
and Miss Grant and her brother consented to stay till
Lord Glenarvan returned.


CHAPTER IV LADY GLENARVAN'S PROPOSAL


LADY HELENA thought it best to say nothing to the children
about the fears Lord Glenarvan had expressed in his letters
respecting the decisions of the Lords of the Admiralty with regard
to the document. Nor did she mention the probable captivity
of Captain Grant among the Indians of South America. Why sadden
the poor children, and damp their newly cherished hopes?
It would not in the least alter the actual state of the case;
so not a word was said, and after answering all Miss Grant's questions,
Lady Helena began to interrogate in her turn, asking her about
her past life and her present circumstances.

It was a touching, simple story she heard in reply, and one
which increased her sympathy for the young girl.

Mary and Robert were the captain's only children. Harry Grant
lost his wife when Robert was born, and during his long voyages
he left his little ones in charge of his cousin, a good old lady.
Captain Grant was a fearless sailor. He not only thoroughly
understood navigation, but commerce also--a two-fold qualification
eminently useful to skippers in the merchant service.