"Why, then he'll be coming right on."
"We'd like to have him," returned Jewel; "but mother wasn't sure how you would feel about it, to have father here so long before business commences."
"Why didn't she tell me last evening?" asked Mr. Evringham.
"I think," returned Jewel, "that she wanted father so much—and—and that she thought perhaps you wouldn't think it was best, and—well, I think she felt a little bashful. You know mother isn't your real relation, grandpa," the child's head fell to one side apologetically.
Mr. Evringham stroked his mustache; but instantly he turned grave again. His eyes met Jewel's.
"I think, as you say, it would be rather a convenience to us if your mother had some one to play with, too. Suppose we send for him, eh?"
"Oh, let's," cried the child joyfully.
"Done with you!" returned the broker, and he gave the rein to Essex Maid. Star had suddenly so much ado to gallop along beside her, that Jewel's laugh rang out merrily.
When, a little later, the family met in the dining-room for breakfast, Mr. Evringham accosted his daughter cheerfully:
"Well, this is good news I hear about Harry."