Tom was prevailed upon to remain in Boston until Quincy could go to Fernborough. At supper they were introduced to Maude's family.
“Six of them,” said Quincy. “I am uncle to a numerous extent. Maude, what are all their names—the girls first.”
“This is Sarah, named after mother; Ella for Aunt Ella, and little Maude for her mother.”
“Good! Now the boys.”
“Stuart—the old gentleman was so nice to Harry and me when we were on our wedding tour—Nat for father, and Harry—”
“Thank Heaven—no Quincy. That name was becoming contagious. I am glad, Maude, that you were wise and kept the epidemic out of your family.”
That evening Quincy and Mr. Merry talked about business matters. Harry told of Hiram's accident and the destruction of the store by fire.
“There's something funny about it,” said Harry. “We authorized Mr. Strout to rebuild and restock at once, and we hear that he has done so, but he has not called on us for a dollar, nor has he sent up any bills for payment.”
“I wish you would send a telegram to Mr. Ezekiel Pettingill the first thing to-morrow morning asking him to come to the city—say important business.”
About three o'clock Ezekiel arrived at the office of Sawyer, Crowninshield, Lawrence and Merry. He was shown into what had been the late Hon. Nathaniel's private office, and came face to face with Quincy.