"Yes, my dear boy; I think there was scarce a waking hour in which I did not ask a blessing on my absent son." The mother dried her tears; grandparents, brothers and sisters drew near and embraced the lad, servants shook him by the hand, and Ion was filled with rejoicing as never before since the removal of its master and head. Tongues ran nimbly as they sat about the tea-table and on the veranda afterward; so much had happened to the young collegian, so many changes had taken place in the family connection since he went away, that there was a great deal to tell and to hear on both sides. The voices were blithe, and there was many a silvery peal of laughter mingled with the pleasant, cheery talk. Isa's and Molly's matches were discussed in a most kindly way, for Edward was quite curious to hear all about them and the preparations for the approaching wedding. Cyril had arrived earlier in the day, was taking tea at Roselands, but would pass the night at Ion, which Edward was glad to hear, as he wished to make his acquaintance. A summer at the sea-shore had been decided upon some weeks ago, and Edward, to his great gratification, had been empowered to select a cottage for the family to occupy during the season, his Aunt Adelaide and her husband assisting him with their advice. He announced with much satisfaction that he had secured one that he thought would accommodate them well--several guests in addition, if mamma cared to invite any of her friends--and please every one. "It is large, convenient, well--even handsomely furnished--and but a few yards from the shore," he said. "The country is pretty about there, too--pleasant walks and drives through green lanes, fields and woods." "But where is it, Edward?" asked Violet. "Not far from Long Branch; and there are some half-dozen other sea-side places within easy driving distance." There were exclamations of delight and impatience to be there from the younger ones, while the mother covered up with a smile and a few words of commendation to Edward the pain in her heart at the thought that her best beloved would not be with his wife and children beside the sea this summer, as in former years. Her father and Rose were thinking of that, too, with deep sympathy for her. In a moment the same thought presented itself to Edward and Violet, and they drew closer to their mother with loving, caressing looks and words. But memories of Lester, and their walks and talks together when last she was at the sea-shore, were filling the mind of the younger Elsie with emotions, half of pleasure, half of pain. When should they meet again? Then the sudden silence that had fallen upon the group about her mother, and a glance at that loved mother's face, reminded her also of the father who would return no more, and whose companionship had been so dear a delight to her and to them all. It was Rosie who broke the silence at length; "Mamma, can we not go pretty soon?" "Yes, daughter, in about a week."