“Gifts from the people of Wolfville to the children of the ancient Acadians,” replied the judge pompously.
“We can never repay them,” faltered Jack.
“Don’t want you to. They were glad—to do it. Liked idea—descendants to occupy old house—deserted for so long.”
“Such a welcome I never dreamed of,” murmured Desiré. “I don’t see why people are so kind to us.”
The judge and his good housekeeper exchanged smiles at her naive remark.
“Why, don’t you want them to be?” demanded Priscilla in astonishment.
“Of course,” answered her sister, attempting unsuccessfully to draw the child to her side; but Priscilla was too bent on inspecting article by article in her new home to have any time for cuddling just then.
“Now you folks—had better—get to bed,” said the judge, preparing for departure. “You’ve had a hard day—lots of excitement. I’ll lead the team back with me. Will they follow—the Ford—do you think?”
“I imagine so,” replied Jack. “They’re very gentle.”
He followed the judge outside to help him with the horses, while Madam Lovemore bade an affectionate goodnight to her new friends.