ccompany me to Blue
Cliffs."

"Why-why-why of course he will go, Laura! Do you 'spect your own dear
brother is a going to let you go off alone, by your own self, of a
journey, when he's invi-vi-vited to go along of you?" exclaimed old Mrs.
Lytton, who entered at that moment, and spoke up before Alden Lytton
could either accept or refuse.

"Certainly he will. Why, nephew's a gentleman, I reckon, and he wouldn't
refuse to escort his own dear sister, when he is requested to do so,"
added Uncle John, as he strode into the room.

Alden Lytton smiled and bowed.

In truth, now that the secret obstacle to his visit to Blue Cliffs was
removed by the departure of Mrs. Grey for an indefinitely long absence,
he felt no objection at all to accompanying his sister thither. So,
still smiling, he answered:

"Why, you all seem to think that I shall make some difficulty about
complying with my sister's wishes. But I shall do nothing of the sort.
On the contrary, I shall attend my sister with great pleasure."

"That's you!" exclaimed old Mrs. Lytton.

"Bully boy!" heartily cried Uncle Jacky.

"I thank you, Alden," said Laura, quietly, giving him her hand.

"Yes, that's all very well; but--" began Charley, who had joined the
circle.

"But what? What's the matter with you?" demanded his father.

Charley, seeing all eyes turned upon him, and most especially Laura's,
blushed crimson and remained silent.

"I had arranged to go with Charley this morning to fish for trout in the
Mad River," laughingly explained Alden.

"Oh, well, it can't be helped! You feel disappointed, of course, my boy;
but everything must give way to the will of the ladies, Charley. 'All
the Lyttons are gallant and chivalrous gentlemen,'" said Uncle Jacky,
proudly, quoting the words of Emma's letter. "And we are no exception to
the rule. Miss Cavendish is anxious for the society of Laura. Laura
wishes the escort of her brother, who has also been invited to Blue
Cliffs. We must not oppose the will of the ladies," concluded John,
bowing to his niece with pompous deference.

Poor Charley blushed purpler than ever, and holding down his red
head--like his father's--he mumbled something about "not wishing to
oppose no ladies whatsoever."

"Now, then, what time are you expected at Blue Cliffs?" inquired Uncle
Jacky, turning to Laura.

"This evening, uncle. Don't you remember? You read the letter."

"Oh, yes! Well, then, you needn't leave till after dinner, Ki