Gus Gregory’s face lengthened considerably when he read the letter his father had written to him. It was kind, but firm, and told how much all at home had suffered on account of his unexpected departure. When Gus read how his mother had wept over his foolish act, his own eyes grew dim, and he half wished himself back at Rockvale.
But the latter end of the letter was more cheerful. Mr. Gregory had intended, during the summer following, to let his son take a trip to Europe before settling down to college work. Now, instead, he wrote that Gus might spend the present time in California, and give up the trip across the ocean.
He also inclosed a money-order for fifty dollars, and said that more might follow when he heard what his son was doing. He also hoped that Gus was with Oliver and that they would stay together, for he knew that Oliver was a manly fellow and one to be trusted.
Oliver blushed when Gus showed him this part of the letter.
“Oh, nonsense,” he exclaimed; “you are big enough to take care of yourself.”
“No, I am not, as that adventure with the shark proves,” replied the stout youth. “Just wait till I write to them about that.”
“I suppose you will make it as sensational as you can, and put me in as a regular dime-novel hero,” laughed Oliver; and he blushed more than ever.
Mr. Whyland’s letter was from his business partners, and told him that everything in the East was running smoothly. This news brought great relief to him, and he said that now he would be able to bend all his energies to hunting down Colonel Mendix and the Aurora mine swindle.
“I think we had better attend to our money-orders first,” suggested Oliver.