"Why, sir, if you will sharpen the axe and the hatchet on the grindstone, it would be of great service, and Tommy can turn it, he is so fond of work."
Tommy jumped up directly; he was quite strong enough to turn the grindstone, but he was much fonder of play than work; but as Ready had said that he was fond of it, he wished to prove that such was the case, and worked very hard. Before they went to prayers and retired for the night, the axe was sharpened, the knapsacks made, and everything else ready.
"When do you intend to start, Ready?" said Mr. Seagrave.
"Why, sir, I should like to get off at the dawn of day, when the heat is not so great."
"And when do you intend to come back?" said Mrs. Seagrave.
"Why, madam, we have provisions enough for three days: if we start to-morrow morning, which is Wednesday, I hope to be back some time on Friday evening; but I won't be later than Saturday morning if I can help it."
"Good-night - and good-bye, mother," said William, "for I shall not see you to-morrow!"
"God bless and protect you, my dear child!" replied Mrs. Seagrave.
"Take care of him, Ready, and good-bye to you till we meet."
Mrs. Seagrave went into the tent to hide the tears which she could not suppress.