o the
glorious old ocean so long his home, so beautiful and lovable in its
varied moods, and settle down upon the unchanging land, quite reconciled
to its sameness? Would he not find in himself an insatiable longing to
be again upon the ever restless sea, treading once more the deck of his
gallant ship, monarch of her little world, director of all her
movements?

It was not a question to be decided in a moment; it required time for
thought; a careful consideration of seemingly conflicting duties; a
careful balancing of inclinations and interests, and for seeking counsel
of his best, his almighty and all-wise, Friend.

At Ion, as the summer heats approached, the question was mooted, "Where
shall we spend the next two or three months?" After some discussion, it
was decided that all should go North to Cape May for a time: afterward
they would break up into smaller parties, and scatter to different
points of interest, as they might fancy.

Lester and Elsie Leland would spend a portion of the season at Cliff
Cottage,--Evelyn's old home,--taking her and Lulu with them.

Edward and Zoe, too, and probably some of the others, would visit there.

All necessary arrangements had been made, and they were to start the
next day, when at last letters were received from Capt. Raymond.

Lulu's heart beat very fast at sight of them. She had been full of
delight at the prospect of her Northern trip, especially the visit to be
paid with Evelyn to her former home; the latter having in their private
talks dwelt much upon its many attractions, and the life she had led
there in the sweet companionship of her beloved father.

"Would there be any thing in papa's letter to prevent the carrying out
of the cherished plans?" Lulu asked herself as, in fear and trembling,
she watched Violet opening with eager fingers the packet handed her at
the breakfast-table.

Max and Gracie, too, looked on with interest quite equal to Lulu's; but
in their case there was only joyous expectancy unmingled with dread.

"There is something for each of us, as usual," Violet said presently,
with a smiling glance from one to another,--"Max, Lulu, Gracie, and
myself."

Lulu received hers,--only a folded slip of paper,--and, asking to be
excused, stole away to the privacy of her own room to read it.

"MY DEAR LITTLE DAUGHTER [it ran],--The story of your misconduct
has given a very sad heart to the father who loves you so dearly. I
forgive you, my child, but ca