The journey home was accomplished in the same manner as the outward had been, and all four had to tell Nanna that they had really had a very enjoyable time. The most enjoyable part to Phebe had been a talk she had with a young fellow who had walked part of the way back with them.
"I was the only useless one there, Mrs. Colston," said Reynolds. "My manly protecting strength was not required at all."
Just like a woman with a dear old motherly heart, Mrs. Colston had ready for them a specially nice tea.
"Is you tum home happy, mummy?" asked dear little Jack, as he gave his mother some welcome hugs.
"Yes, darling, very happy."
"Why is you vevy happy, mummy?"
"Because, darling, I've tried to be obedient."
But the thought of why his mother had to be obedient was too perplexing for him, so he turned to the easier task of counting the gooseberries in his little pie.
Just before entering the town the little party had been met by Stephen Collins, who again passed by with a bow and a smile. But no smile was in his heart. "Others can stand by her and help her, but I must do nothing—not even defend her as she ought to be defended. God help me!"
The following Sunday afternoon the same programme was carried out, with just a few additions. A few women were present, some of the men learnt a chorus; two women forcibly took the tea arrangements out of Dick's hands, the remark being, "What's a great yardstick like you know about making tea!" and instead of one man accompanying the little party on its way homewards there were four. The result of all this was that Bessie informed Nanna that "things were humming more than ever."