Warm greetings were exchanged, and as the weather was now too cool for comfortable sitting upon the veranda the Captain led the way to the library--a favorite resort with them all.
"Your call is an agreeable surprise, mother," he said to Grandma Elsie, as he drew forward an easy chair for her; "Harold had just been telling us that you were almost ill with a cold."
"I have a rather bad one, but thought a drive through the bracing air, and in such pleasant company, might prove beneficial rather than otherwise," she answered in cheery tones, adding "And I knew Harold was here and could take me home in his conveyance."
"Certainly, mother, and will be very glad of your good company," said Harold, while at the same time Violet exclaimed, "But why go at all to-night, mother? Why not stay here with us?"
"Thank you, daughter," was the smiling reply; "that would be pleasant, but there are some things to be attended to at home."
"And not being well, she would better have her doctor close at hand," remarked Harold, in playful tone. "Mother, we have been contriving a plan to help you and Chester to get the better of your colds."
"Ah, what is that?" she asked, and Harold, turning to the Captain, said, "Let mother hear it from you, Brother Levis, if you please."
"We are thinking of taking a southward trip in the 'Dolphin,' mother--visiting the Bermudas, Bahamas and other of the West Indies and the coast of Brazil."
"Why, that would be a lovely trip!" she exclaimed. "Many thanks to you, Captain, for including me among your invited guests."
"Many thanks to you, mother, if you consent to make one of our party," he returned, looking greatly pleased to find her so ready to approve of and share their plans.
Eager, excited remarks and queries now followed in rapid succession from the others present--"When was the start to be made? Who besides Grandma Elsie and the Captain were to compose the party?"
"All who are here now are invited and expected to go; some others of our friends also," replied the Captain, "and I hope no one will refuse."
"Thanks, warm thanks," said Chester. "I should be delighted to go, but fear business will prevent."
"As your physician, Ches, I strongly advise you not to let it," said Harold. "A good rest now in a warm climate may restore you to vigorous health, while if you stay at home and stick to business you are likely to either cut your life short or make yourself a confirmed invalid for the rest of it."