In the afternoon Mr. Polk took his charge to the home of a friend to see about schools, as his friend had a boy about the same age, and also to get help as to the general problem of caring for his protégé.
Arrived at the house, the friend, Mr. Colton, his wife and Maud, the young daughter about fifteen years of age, were at home and gave the visitors a lively welcome. They were at once greatly interested in the mountain boy, but so civilized was his outfit, and intelligent his face that they could not realize his difference from themselves except when he talked. This they were delighted to get him to do, and he answered all questions unabashed, though he liked better to look and listen.
The Coltons were well-to-do people with ever-ready, easy hospitality and insisted that Mr. Polk and Steve remain to tea.
“The maids are both out as it happens, so we must get tea ourselves,” said Mrs. Colton, adding with mock graciousness, “and everybody may help!”
They all trooped out in responsive pleasantry through the hall, and Mr. Colton inquired:
“Where is Raymond?”
“Oh, he is out,” replied Mrs. Colton. “There is no telling when he will be in.”
That they were very indulgent parents and Raymond was an exceedingly lively boy, Mr. Polk already knew.
The hostess and her daughter exchanged glances of sudden consternation when they reached the dining-room, then burst into merriest laughter.