"An' why not when yer Self has been away an' just got back?"
"And you've killed the fatted turkey," said the Judge, as he took out his silver snuff box. "One by one, the prodigals are returning."
They heard footsteps on the stairs and the merry voice of the Widow Moran. In a moment, Mr. and Mrs. Bing stood in the doorway.
"Mr. and Mrs. Bing, I want to make you acquainted with my very dear friend, Robert Moran," said Judge Crooker.
There were tears in the Shepherd's eyes as Mrs. Bing stooped and kissed him. He looked up at the mill owner as the latter took his hand.
"I am glad to see you," said Mr. Bing.
"Is this—is this Mr. J. Patterson Bing?" the Shepherd asked, his eyes wide with astonishment.
"Yes, and it is my fault that you do not know me better. I want to be your friend."
The Shepherd put his handkerchief over his eyes. His voice trembled when he said: "You have been very kind to us."
"But I'm really hoping to do something for you," Mr. Bing assured him. "I've brought a great surgeon from New York who thinks he can help you. He will be over to see you in the morning."