hear
great news today. Everything is so still just now, with not a leaf nor
a blade of grass aquiver. See how the fog rests upon the river through
which the sun is trying to break. There will be a heavy wind this
afternoon, mark my word. I have often noticed it to be so. It is the
rule rather than the exception. And it may be the case with us. The
quietness of the morning may give place to excitement before night."

"You are quite a philosopher," Lois laughingly remarked.

"Not at all, dear. I am merely an observer, and I notice that what
happens in nature around us is often true in our own lives. The law
which governs the waves of the ocean affects in a similar manner the
ripples of a tiny pool. I am going to make a prophecy now."

"Let it be a good one."

"Certainly. I am going to predict that this afternoon will bring us
the excitement of joy, and that there will be a happy company seated at
this table for dinner. How is that for a prophecy?"

"I hope it will come true," Lois replied with a smile.

"Do you care for a walk this morning?" she asked.

"No, I think not. I have some needle-work to finish, and I do so like
that shady corner of the verandah. But don't you stay in on my
account."

"I'm afraid I couldn't content myself in any one place this morning,"
and Lois gazed thoughtfully out of the window. "I am so restless that
I must be on the move. I shall visit the Haven first and then go for
the mail. We should hear something from your father."

Lois enjoyed the walk up along the shaded lane, and when she was almost
to the main highway she sat down under a large tree and looked out upon
the river. The last trace of fog was slowly lifting and not a ripple
disturbed the surface of the water. She longed to be out there in her
boat and made up her mind to go for a row during the afternoon. She
thought of the day Jasper had rescued her and Margaret. What was he
doing now? she wondered. Perhaps he was sitting in his lonely cell
thinking of her. The thought brought a flush to her cheeks and a sweet
peace to her heart. No doubt he had received her letter, and that
would tell him that she had not forgotten him.

She found the captain in his accustomed place upon the verandah.

"You are early this morning," was his salutation as he took the pipe
from his mouth.

"Why shouldn't I be?" she asked, as she sat down by his side.
"Wouldn't it be a pity to stay indoors a morning like this?"