nd, "that I may be offering to take upon myself a
duty which is much to the taste of one of my brothers-in-law and might
be better performed by one or both of them.

"No, captain," replied Mrs. Leland, "you need have no such fear, as
neither of them is just now in a position to leave home, unless it were
quite necessary for dear mamma's comfort."

"Then we will consider it settled that Violet and I are to go," said the
captain, turning to her with his pleasant smile. "How soon can you be
ready, my dear?"

"By the first of next week if my husband wishes to start by that time,"
returned Violet gayly. "Oh, I am quite delighted at the prospect of
seeing again that one of our sweet homes, and especially of doing so in
company with you, Levis."

The captain considered a moment. "I would not like to disappoint Max,"
he said. "I think I must visit him next Saturday--as I shall not
probably be able to see him again before next spring. But I will make
necessary arrangements beforehand and I think we may leave for the South
by Wednesday morning of next week, if that will suit you, my dear?"

"Entirely," she said; "it will give me just about time enough to get
everything ready without hurry or confusion."

So it was settled, everybody seeming well satisfied with the
arrangement.

A little more time was spent in discussing plans, then the captain and
Violet bade good-by and set out on their return home.

"You are well pleased with the prospect of this visit to Viamede,
Violet, my dear?" the captain said, as they drove rapidly along the
familiar road.

"Oh, yes, indeed," she answered brightly; "Viamede is so lovely, a sort
of earthly paradise I have always thought, and I am really delighted at
the thought of showing it to you. Ah, I am quite sure, having your dear
society there, I shall enjoy it more than ever!"

"Thank you, dearest," was his smiling response. "I am certainly pleased
with the prospect of seeing that earthly paradise, particularly with you
to share my enjoyment. And how pleased Lulu and Gracie will be, for I
have often heard them speak of Viamede as even lovelier than Woodburn,
which they evidently esteem a very delightful and lovely home."

"As it assuredly is, my dear," was Violet's smiling rejoinder. "I could
not ask a lovelier, happier home than that which my husband--the very
best and dearest of husbands--has provided for me. Oh, I often ask
myself, 'Is there anybody else in all the wide world who ha