The following morning, Jo drove Mrs. Kingdon, Pen and the children to town to see Kingdon off. When his train had pulled out, they went to the postoffice and Francis was sent in for the mail.
“A letter for you, mother,” he said, running up to the car. “It’s Aunt Helen’s writing.”
An anxious look came into Margaret Kingdon’s eyes as she read.
“Doris is ill, and my sister wants me to come to her,” she explained to Pen. “She is quite helpless in a sick room and Doris asks for me. There is a train east in an hour and you can send my luggage on to me. I’ll return as soon as Doris is convalescent.”
“I will do all I can to help with the children,” promised Pen.
“I know you will. And Jo can stop at Mrs. Merlin’s and take her to Top Hill. She always presides in my absence. She is a good housekeeper and is never disagreeable or officious.”
“Jo says Mrs. Merlin shinnies on her own side,” added Billy.
“Jo is right,” replied his mother.
At the station Mrs. Kingdon drew Pen aside.
“You must tell Kurt, you know,” she cautioned.