"You, you, dear!"

"Is there anything?" asked Cora, smiling at her chums.

"Oh, dear, it's the best thing in the world--if you'll consent to
it!" burst out Bess. "Listen! Papa and mamma want you to come with
us, Cora--to the West Indies. They'd love to have you and your
mother."

"We couldn't leave Jack!" said Cora, softly.

"Bring him along!" invited Belle. "It would be just the thing for
him--wouldn't it, Dr. Blake?"

"The West Indies? Yes, I should say there couldn't be a better
place."

"Oh!" gasped Cora.

"Do say yes, Mrs. Kimball!" pleaded Belle.

"What about poor little Inez?" questioned Cora. "Did you tell your
father, Bess?"

"Yes, and he seems to think there may be something in it. He is
going to make inquiries. Oh, but let's settle this first. Will you
come with us, Mrs. Kimball--Cora? And bring Jack! Oh, it would be
just perfect to have you with us."

"Could we go, Mother?" Cora pleaded.