I was silent for a few moments, and then my voice was very husky as I said—
“For some years now I have had no friends except Mrs Dean and her son. Then I met Mr John Dempster, and since then it has been like having old times. Now you are going away, and you say don’t go too.”
“Yes, yes,” said Mrs John; “I am speaking for your good.”
“I know you think you are, Mrs John; but if Mr John here had at my age been placed in my position, I’m sure he would not have done as you advise.”
“I’m afraid I should, my boy,” he faltered. “I never did have your energy.”
“Then I can’t help it,” I cried. “I shall not say good-bye to you, for go I must.”
“Oh, Mr Gordon,” cried Mrs Dean, “if you go Esau is sure to go too.”
“Then we will try the harder either to make you a home out there, or to come back here prosperous men.”
“Then I say it again,” cried Mrs Dean, just as if she were putting my hopes into shape, “you two couldn’t make a home comfortable; so if it is to be, why there’s an end of it. And look here, sir and ma’am, this poor dear is not fit to go all that long journey alone, and as I’m going too, I shall come along with you and tend to her, and do the best I can.”
“Oh no, no,” cried Mrs John.