“I hope not, Mike.”
“Anyways, we shall hear when we get to Haymore. Yes, that is so,” said Dandy, with an air of resignation.
He was not nearly so anxious to hear from his niece as Longman had been to get news of his mother. He did not, indeed, care much about her now, whatever he might come to care after he should have renewed his acquaintance with her.
When they reached Chuxton and turned into the street leading to the “Tawny Lion,” they saw the huge carryall drawn up before the door, with a crowd of idlers, mostly boys, gathered around it to see it start.
Longman and his companions went into the parlor, where they found the Hays and Will Walling waiting for them.
“Why have you stayed for us, Mr. Hay? This is really too kind!” said Longman.
“Kind to myself, friend! I did not want to go without you. Even if I had, Judy would not have allowed it. I see by your face that you have good news of your mother. I congratulate you,” said Ran, offering his hand.
“Yes, sir, thank Heaven!” replied the hunter. And then in a few words, as they walked to the carryall, he told all he heard at the farm.
“That is splendid!” exclaimed Judy with enthusiasm, as she was lifted into the carryall by Ran and placed in the sheltered back seat.
“Dandy must sit back there with you, darling. He is old, and then the drive over the moor will be a very cold one. You won’t mind it, will you, Judy?” he inquired, as he settled her among the cushions and tucked her fur cloak well around her feet.