Mamma said at first it was quite impossible. Fan I could see was strongly in favor of the idea. I knew that I could keep house very well, and it would be delightful to have them go. So we talked and talked. Mrs. Whitcomb came over and the matter was actually settled.
Stephen had found some trace of Louis and lost it again, but he was confident that he could follow up the clue. He had grown exceedingly anxious. He and papa had long talks on the subject.
“I heard of his keeping books for a few weeks at a factory,” he explained. “I think he must have gone away nearly destitute, but this effort at independence gives me much hope. Perhaps it will be a good lesson for him—if he does not fall among evil associates.”
It was nothing but Stephen and Mr. Duncan. I began to grow almost jealous. Did he suspect it, I wonder? He used to watch me so curiously, though somehow we never talked. He and Fan were absolutely jolly. I wondered how she dared be so saucy with that great grave-eyed man.
“You won’t mind being left alone for a little while?” he said to me. “I will promise to take excellent care of your mother. I only wish it were a pleasanter season of the year, but Miss Fanny will keep us bright anywhere.”
That was true enough.
“And if I can induce Mrs. Whitcomb to stay I shall be quite satisfied with my lot.”
Indeed, I think any one might have been satisfied with the prospect before him.
We said good-bye to them on Monday morning, as mamma decided that she must be at home by Saturday. I could not realize that they had gone for more than the day until evening set in. Then it seemed so strange and quiet. There was a little drizzle of hail and rain, and for a wonder no one dropped in. The children went to bed, Nelly was busy with her studies, papa read, and I sewed some trifle. I believe I felt nervous and almost low-spirited.
“Come,” I said to myself, “this will never do.”