“Nor how much we have missed you,” returned Martha, her eyes growing suddenly misty.
“How are you making it, Dad? Do you feel like a regular soldier yet?” questioned Fred of his parent.
“Oh, we are working into it, Fred,” replied Sam Rover.
“How soon do you expect to go to Europe?” questioned Mary quickly.
“There is a rumor that we shall leave in a week or two.”
“Oh! as soon as that?” came from several of the others.
“Of course we can’t tell positively,” went on Fred’s father. He turned to Andy and Randy. “By the way, boys, I’ve got a surprise for you,” he added. “Your father will be down here this morning. In fact, we are expecting him any minute.”
“Is he coming alone?” asked Andy.
“I don’t think so. He spoke about bringing your mother with him, and possibly he may bring your Aunt Dora and your Aunt Grace.”
“Oh, that would be fine!” exclaimed Mary. She happened to glance around. “Well, I declare! Here they come now!” And in a moment more the folks from New York City leaped out of a newly-arrived automobile and strode toward the others. There was a great amount of kissing and handshaking, and Tom Rover’s face showed his great excitement.