Owen took a second-class ticket for himself, but when Netta heard that he had done so she begged so hard to be allowed to travel second class with him, or that he would come with her, that he was obliged to change it, and become, as he expressed it, 'a grand gentleman for once in his life.'
They had a compartment to themselves, into which Rowland went, to be with Netta until the whistle sounded.
'Oh, brother!' sobbed Netta, 'if I never see you again, promise to be kind to Howel; promise to give him whatever I leave for him. Perhaps I shall die,—I don't know. Tell him all you have said to me; try to make him good, and give him the hope you have given me. Will you, brother? Say, will you?'
'I will do everything you wish, my darling sister, if I have the opportunity.'
'And will you write to me about what you have been saying to me?'
'I will, dear, regularly. But you have only to believe and pray. God bless you, Netta, dear! God for ever bless you!'
The guard was at the door, Owen in the carriage. Rowland gave Netta one long, last kiss, and went out upon the platform.
'Kiss me, uncle,' said Minette, putting her little face out of the window.
When she drew it in again she wiped off a tear that Rowland had left upon her cheek.
'Good-bye, Gladys,—good-bye, Owen,' he said, stretching out his hand, which was clasping that of his brother as the train began to move, and separated him from the sister, brother, niece, and friend whom he loved so well.