"Oh, yes, indeed. Thank you. I—I shall be glad to have Pepita in such a nice place."
At home Amy had spoken to none save Cleena about this intention of hers, and that good creature had sighed and wiped her eyes, but had not uttered one word of protest. The girl sighed, too, now, and the superintendent felt it would be kind to cut the matter short.
"When can I send for her?"
"Oh, at—at any time, I suppose. Or, if you don't mind, I'd like to ride her here myself. Just once more."
Mr. Metcalf looked at his watch.
"In a few moments John will be passing by Bareacre on his way to the other village. You might drive up with him and ride her down here afterward. There will be ample time before dark, and you must tell your people not to be anxious, should there be any delay."
"Very well; and maybe Hallam, my brother, will come, also. Though he hasn't been told yet, and might not—"
"Very well. Excuse me for a moment. I will speak to John."
He did not add, nor Amy reflect, that it was a very long and roundabout way to reach "the other village," by passing over rough and steep Bareacre hill; but John was willing enough to take it, when he was told who was to be his companion on the route. He had liked Amy from the first, and had grown to know her fairly well during his time of helping the Kaye household to settle.
"All right, boss. Sorry the little thing is to give up her donkey. She set a powerful store by it, I 'low. Well, all ready? How do, Miss Amy? So me an' you're going to take a trip together, eh? Then I can find out for myself how the well is doing. Don't see much of 'Bony' since your folks took him in hand. Giddap, there, Jinny! Here we go!"