“It’s not a joyful home-coming,” remarked Joseph Morris, to his brother. “But I am glad that you and Dave are alive.”
“But the loss at the post—” began James Morris, anxiously.
“Let that drop, James. The loss is nothing compared to what it would have been had you lost your life out there. In the future you may be more successful.”
“Then you think we will eventually conquer the French and Indians?”
“I do—and it will not take many years to do it either,” replied Joseph Morris, and his words proved true, as history testifies.
When Dave and the others came in sight of the homestead, all even to little Nell, ran forward to greet them, and it was Mrs. Morris who first folded the young soldier in her arms and kissed him.
“I am so glad to see you back!” she cried. “You must not go away again!”
“Not for the present, Aunt Lucy,” answered Dave. “I think I’ve earned a good rest.”
“I’ve got a little news to tell,” said Henry, after all had entered the cabin. “Do you remember the horses which disappeared? Well, father and I got them back last week, from some Indians who were going to turn them over to the soldiers for thirty pounds apiece.”
“You’ve got Fanny back?” cried Dave, and his face lit up with pleasure. “That’s splendid! Did you have any trouble?”