“Not for another six months, Cob,” he said in answer to an inquiry as to when he was coming down.
“You four must pacify the country first,” he added laughing, “and have the business in good going order.”
My visit was very pleasant, and I could not help feeling proud of the treatment I received at home; but all the same I was glad to start again for Arrowfield and join my uncles in their battle for success.
For there was something very exciting in these struggles with the men, and now I was away all this seemed to be plainer, and the attraction grew so that there was a disposition on my part to make those at home quite at their ease as to the life I was leading down at Arrowfield.
At last the day came for me to start on my return journey, when once more I had a packet to bear.
“I need not tell you that it is of great value, Cob,” said my father. “Button it up in your pocket, and then forget all about it. That is the safest way. It takes off all the consciousness.”
“I don’t suppose I shall meet my friend this time,” I said.
My father shuddered slightly.
“It is not likely,” he said; “but I should strongly advise you to change carriages if you find yourself being left alone with a stranger.”
Word had been sent down as to the train I should travel by, and in due time I found myself on the Arrowfield platform and back at our new home, where Mrs Stephenson and Tattsey were ready with the most friendly of smiles.