It was a bright and cheerful party that presently gathered about the table, and a lively conversation was carried on while they partook of the tempting viands. The new home about to be prepared for Rosie, its present condition, the beauty of the situation, the grounds, the building, and the improvements to be made by alterations and additions, were themes dilated upon for a time; then the approaching marriage of Dick and Maud came under discussion, and the questions were broached whether she would wear the dress she had worn as Rosie's bridesmaid, and whether she would have the same attendants. "I hope she will," little Elsie said. "I'd like to be flower girl again, and my dress is all ready, so that it wouldn't make any trouble or expense." "That is very thoughtful in you, little sister," laughed Lucilla. "I am really sorry there is no time or opportunity to buy presents for Maud," remarked Violet in a regretful tone. "Yes, it seems a pity," said Captain Raymond; "but perhaps they can be sent on to her later. If people will marry in haste they will have to take the consequences. I hope that in this case one of them will not be repenting at leisure." "I don't believe it will," said Violet. "They are of the same kith and kin, and know pretty much all about each other." "Keith," said Captain Raymond, "send your plate up again; I see it is almost empty." "Thank you, no; I want to save some appetite for the later breakfast that I am told I must share with the rest of you at Pinegrove. Our good friends there might feel hurt should I do it scant justice." "How soon do we go, papa?" asked Grace. "As soon after prayers as the ladies are dressed and ready." "The little girls and boys too, papa?" asked Ned somewhat anxiously. "Elsie and I are to go, aren't we?" "Oh, yes, my son, and I hope will have a very pleasant time. I am glad I can trust you to be good, well-behaved children." Donald Keith was on the watch for an opportunity to tell to Lucilla the story of his love, but none offered. They drove to Pinegrove, and afterward to Roselands, in the same carriage, but it had a number of other occupants, and the conversation was general. But, fortunately for Lucilla, she had no suspicion of his designs upon her, so was entirely at her ease with him. The Pinegrove party was a success, everybody enjoying it fully; the very young in playing games, the older ones strolling about the grounds, chatting, laughing, singing. The breakfast, quite a grand affair, was served about noon, and some two hours after it was over they all left the grove for Roselands.