noon
The excursionists drove off , and Elsie , having provided the little ones with amusement , gave herself up to the enjoyment of her book and an easy-chair set where she could catch the pleasant sea breeze without feeling the sun . Still , she did not forget the children , but now and then laid aside her book for a little , while she suggested or invented some new game for their entertainment . So the morning passed quietly and pleasantly . It was a little past noon when , stepping out upon the veranda , she caught sight of a forlorn figure , hatless , coatless , and dishevelled generally , yet bearing a strangely familiar look , slowly approaching the other cottage . A second glance told her who it was . `` Max ! '' she exclaimed in astonishment , and forgetting all about her headache , caught up a sunshade and hurried to meet him .