He looked back as long as he could. Mother and sister were waving their handkerchiefs, Grace having brought her largest for this special occasion.
But the train went swiftly on its way, and soon Mossvale and its people were left behind.
"Off at last!" was Richard's mental comment. "It's sink or swim now.
Good-by to Mossvale and the old life!"
Yet it must in truth be confessed that there was just the suspicion of a tear in his eye and a lump in his throat as he settled back in his seat, but he hastily brushed away the one and swallowed the other, and put on as bold a front as he could.
The car was only partially filled, and he had a double seat all to himself. He placed his valise beside him, and then gazed at the ever-varying panorama that rushed past.
But his mind was not given to the scenes that were thus presenting themselves. His thoughts were far ahead, speculating upon what it would be best to do when his destination was reached.
He knew New York was a big place, and felt tolerably certain that few, if indeed any, would care to give him the information that he knew he needed.
Presently the train began to stop at various stations, and the car commenced to fill up.
"This seat taken?" said a gentleman, as he stopped beside Richard.
"No, sir," replied the boy, and made room for the other.