the baskets. They were in great plenty, quite a variety, and all very
good and palatable. I think the air and rowing had given us all fine
appetites so that everybody ate heartily and seemed to enjoy it."

"And you were not sorry you went?"

"No, indeed! I am much obliged to you, father, for letting me go," she
added, turning to him with a look of love and gratitude.

"You are very welcome, daughter," he said, "and I am glad you enjoyed
it. There is an old saying that 'all work and no play makes Jack a dull
boy,' and I think girl nature does not differ in that respect."

"Oh, you dear papa! none of your children are ever allowed to have all
work and no play," she exclaimed, giving him a look of ardent affection.
"You take a great deal of trouble to give us pleasure; you always have."

"Yes, indeed," said Grace; "it seems to be papa's greatest delight to
give pleasure to his wife and children. Don't you think so, mamma?"

"Indeed I do," returned Violet heartily. "I have never known a more
generous or unselfish person than my husband and your father."

"And what shall I say?" queried the captain. "That when I am the person
under discussion no greater flatterers can be found than my wife and
older daughters?"

"Oh! we will excuse you from saying anything on the subject, sir,"
laughed Violet.