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Upon their arrival in Boston, Fred would have started immediately to see his father; but Gus, who was to accompany Edith home, urged him to go with them. And Edith pleaded too—more with her eager, blushing face and eloquent eyes, than with words.

"Do, Mr. Stanley," she urged, laying her little white hand on his own—"do come! Papa will be so anxious to see one who has saved his daughter's life."

Every nerve thrilled at that magnetic touch; but still he stood irresolute.

"Please, Mr. Stanley," continued that low, musical voice—to his ear the sweetest he had ever heard; and the starry eyes were raised to the face above her.

Fred looked down, to encounter those pleading blue eyes raised so earnestly to his; and—just as you would have done, my dear sir, had you been in his place—surrendered.

The residence of Major Percival was several miles from the city; and after spending one night at a hotel, the trio started next morning.

The drive to Percival Hall was always remembered by Fred among the happiest moments of his life. The cold reserve which Edith had always maintained on shipboard had entirely vanished. An almost childish glee at being once more at home had taken its place, and she chatted and laughed with a freedom and vivacity that completely finished poor Fred.