e you and I are of about the same
age, doctor?"

"Quite likely; and confirmed bachelors, both of us, it would seem," was
the nonchalant rejoinder. "I am some years older than Cousin Vi."

"Not too old for reformation, however," remarked Captain Raymond
pleasantly. "And let me assure you that a wife--such as mine, for
instance--is a very great blessing; doubling the happiness of life."

"I don't doubt it, sir," said Dick; "but such an one is not to be picked
up every day."

"No, certainly not. I have always felt myself strangely fortunate in
securing so great a treasure."

"As you well may," remarked Keith pleasantly; "yet your good fortune has
been largely owing to your undoubted worthiness of it, Raymond."

"In which opinion I agree with you heartily, Cousin Donald," responded
Violet's sweet voice close at hand, taking them by surprise, for, in the
earnestness of their talk they had not perceived the sound of her light
approaching footsteps. "I think there is nothing good which is beyond my
husband's deserts," she added as all three rose hastily to hand her to a
seat, Donald saying:

"So you overheard me, Coz! Well, please remember that it was I who
brought you two together. An act which seems to have born abundance of
good fruit in the happiness of all concerned."

"I think it has," she said, her husband adding, "And for which I, at
least, owe you a deep debt of gratitude."

"And not you alone, my dear," said Violet; "and in return I can wish him
nothing better than wedded happiness equal to our own."

"A wish in which I heartily unite with you," said Captain Raymond.

CHAPTER XII.

Captain Raymond and his eldest daughter were out in the Woodburn grounds
the next morning at their usual early hour, wandering here and there
along the shaded paths and among the shrubs and flowers, noting their
growth in size and beauty, gathering blossoms, and chatting together in
their usual familiar and affectionate manner; Lucilla expressing her
thoughts and feelings as freely and openly as though her companion had
been one of her own age and sex.

"I am glad for Rosie," she said when the talk turned upon the subject of
what was expected to be the great event of the day, "she seems so happy;
though how she can be in the prospect of leaving the dear home of her
childhood and the mother who loves her so fondly, I cannot understand.
Oh, father! I do think I can never, never bear to go away from you! It
seems impos