can accompany us part way and then come back home. I planned to go
via the Panama Canal, and thus on to Hawaii, touching there for a short
visit to the Islands, and those of our party who must return to the
States, can get back by steamer to California and thence to their
respective homes. We will sail on to the land of cherry blossoms and
pigtails. But you girls with one short sentence blast all these cherished
dreams."

"Oh, no, Dalky! We wouldn't change your plans for the world!" exclaimed
Polly, anxiously. "You see, the South Sea Isles will wait until we can
get there, but you and your plans are apt to change--as the railroad
guides read--without notice at any time!"

A laugh followed Polly's remark, and Mr. Dalken added, "Well just mull
over this project for a time and give me your individual opinions about
it. Of course, we would be crowded if everyone in the families mentioned
were to accept my invitation and take the round trip; but I feel quite
safe in inviting all because I am sure I can bank on certain ones
refusing to go."

"I don't believe you could tear father or mother away from Pebbly Pit,"
remarked Polly, wistfully.

"And I know for certain that mother and Bob wouldn't give up their summer
season at a fashionable resort, just to join a party of old-fashioned
sea-farers," laughed Eleanor.

"Do you think you could persuade your father to join us?" asked Mr.
Dalken.

"I bet he would go as far as Honolulu, anyway!" said Eleanor.

"That's one for certain to start with!" laughed Mr. Dalken.

"Then there is Polly and myself and Mrs. Courtney, for certain--and that
makes four; with yourself, we are five!" exulted Eleanor, drawing forth
another laugh.

"Then it is settled, eh? We sail for the Orient without more ado, just as
soon as your extensive business deals are done and you will need a long
rest in order to recuperate for next year's work," chuckled Mr. Dalken.

"If our two clients would postpone their decorating for a year, we might
be able to start tomorrow," remarked Polly, smilingly.

"But the clients are obdurate, especially when the decorators need
payment and prestige to succeed in their profession. Besides, the owner
of the yacht is not keen on sailing the seas in the middle of winter and
then land in China in the wet season."

"Yes, he is right," admitted Polly.

"If we should really take such a trip, Dalky, what is the best time of
the year to start?" asked Eleanor.

"Well, we co