Father accepted his retirement with mixed feelings. He was delighted to have the chance to rest after a lifetime of supporting his family, but he was a bit unsure what to do with his spare time.

"We should travel," Mother remarked, "just for a little while to celebrate being able to get out of the house."

I knew Mother was trying to think of ways to fill her empty nest. Simon had moved out years ago to start his own bank, and Lenora had gotten married. With David in the military and Corine at the university, I was the last remaining Dawson child.

We packed a few changes of clothes and other things we would need. Simon promised to watch over our home while we were gone, and we took the nearest train to the seaside.

I felt a little strange in my swimwear. The dress only came to my knees, and I wore what felt like trousers beneath it. My ankles were covered only by long socks and my shoes.

Mother didn't even wear socks or shoes. "I'm an old woman. Not a soul is going to find my ankles voluptuous."

While I was swimming, I accidentally bumped into someone.

"I do beg your pardon," I apologized.

"Quite alright." He extended his arm. "Granville Hughes."

I took his hand. "Meta Dawson."

"Would you misunderstand my intentions if I were to offer you something to eat?"

"Not at all."

I'm quite certain I was blushing as I allowed him to take my arm and lead me to the restaurant near the beach. I saw Mother looking at us, but she said nothing. Judging from her slight smile, she didn't disapprove. Thankfully, there was a nice patio, so I didn't have to enter the restaurant dripping wet.

"Are you here on holiday?" Granville queried.

"Yes," I replied, "with my parents."

He chuckled. "I thought I recognized Judge Dawson!"

"Oh?"

"His picture ends up in the paper at times."

I nodded. "And are you on holiday?"

"I live not too far from here, but I might be taking a holiday soon."

I smiled politely. "Where will you be going?"

"Where did you say you were from?"

"London."

He shuddered.

"Is something the matter with London?!"

"Since I've never been to the city, I can't judge," Granville replied, "and there are many respectable rodents who take holidays here."

"So what's the problem?"

"The papers mention a ring of criminals that becomes more powerful each day."

I sighed sadly. "These same felons took the life of my oldest brother."

"The Ingham Incident." He nodded sympathetically. "A real shame! The Inghams were truly selfless philanthropists! Your brother would have married into a wonderful family, had they not…" He shook his head.

"Had they not been killed," I finished for him.

When the waiter took our order, I requested a light salad. I didn't want to give the impression of gluttony.

I found Granville to be delightful company. He was intelligent, but also deeply caring. He seemed genuinely interested in hearing about my family.

Granville had come from a smaller family, having just one sister. His mother had been a governess until she had met his father, who was a professor of chemistry.

When we had finished our meal, Granville escorted me back to the beach, where my parents were waiting.

"Judge and Doctress Dawson," he began, "your daughter has given me the pleasure of her company during luncheon. Since she has called on me, I should like to return the favor. Might I call on her the next time I am in London?"

"Don't try to lie to a judge!" Father answered. "She's beautiful, isn't she?"

I felt my face growing hot. I was sure I was blushing.

"She is undoubtedly so, sir," Granville replied, "but I am more concerned with the appearance of one's heart, and in this too, she is lovely."

"You are welcome to visit any time," Mother stated.

I never expected to see him again, but I knew I'd always have the pleasant memories of our conversations at the seaside.