occasion, and toothsome viands such as "papa" deemed they might eat and
enjoy without danger to health.

It was very nice, they thought; almost nicer, just for a change, than
going to the larger table down-stairs with the rest of the family.

Soon after they had had their supper, their father came in, bringing the
doctor with him, for his second visit that day.

"Ah! she is a good deal better," Dr. Conly said, when he had examined
his little patient. "Hardly well enough yet to go to Ion," he added with
a humorous look and smile; "but I think, if well wrapped up, she may
venture a trip down-stairs in papa's arms, and even stay a little while,
if she finds the change to the parlor a pleasant one."

"Should you like it, papa's dear pet?" the captain asked, leaning over
her.

"Yes, sir, if you and my doctor think it will be good for me," was the
reply, in a submissive and rather languid tone, "and if my Lulu is to
come too," she added, with a loving look at her sister.

"Oh, yes, indeed! we would not think of going without Lulu!" their
father said, smiling affectionately upon her also.

So a large shawl was brought, and carefully wrapped about Gracie's
little slender figure; and she made the short journey in her father's
strong arms, the doctor and Lulu going on before, hand in hand,
chatting and laughing merrily.