The meal concluded, all gathered in the family parlor and held the usual morning service of prayer, praise, and reading of the Scriptures. That over, they gathered upon the front veranda and were again engaged in discussing the subject of wedding gifts, when Dr. Percival drove up with his wife and her brother. They were most cordially greeted and invited to give their views in regard to the subject which was engaging the thoughts of the others at the moment. "I think it would be wise for us all to agree as to what each one shall give, so that there will be no duplicates," said Maud. "Yes," said Violet, "that is the conclusion we have all come to." "Very good," said Maud. "And Sidney wanted me to consult with you older ladies in regard to the material of her wedding dress--whether it should be silk or satin; and about the veil. They are to be married in the morning, out under the orange trees." "Oh, that will be lovely," said Violet. "Yes; I think so; and it will allow plenty of room," continued Maud; "and we need plenty because our two doctors want to invite so many of their patients lest somebody should feel hurt by being left out. Our idea is to have the ceremony about noon and the wedding breakfast on the lawn immediately after it." "I like that," said Violet. "As to the wedding-dress question--suppose we send to New Orleans for samples, let Sidney choose from them and order the quantity she wants?" "That strikes me as a very good idea," said Chester; "and I want it distinctly understood that I pay for this wedding dress. I had no opportunity to do a brother's part by Maud at the time of her marriage, but I insist that I shall be allowed to do so by this only remaining sister." "Yes, Chester, you and I will both insist upon being allowed our rights this time," laughed Dick; "especially as there will be no single sister left to either of us." "And between you, and with the other relatives to help, Sidney will fare well, I hope and believe," remarked Mr. Dinsmore with a smile. "Chester," said Lucilla in a low aside, "I want your help in choosing my gift for your sister. I have the greatest confidence in your judgment and taste." "Thank you, dearest," he returned with a pleased smile. "I shall be very glad to give my opinion for what it is worth." "I presume you have sent or will promptly send word to Frank that his sister is about to marry?" Mr. Dinsmore remarked in a tone between assertion and inquiry. "We have written," replied Dick, "but are not at all certain that the letter will reach him in time, as he may have left Florida before it could be received." "I do not quite despair of getting him here in season," remarked Chester. "I think we will hear of his whereabouts in time to send him a telegram." Just at that moment the Magnolia carriage was seen coming up the driveway with Mr. and Mrs. Embury in it.