"We're saved! We're saved!" and then throwing himself upon Vigilant, rolled him over in the snow in the exuberance of his delight.
The horses were promptly attached to the van, replacing poor old tired-out Steady, who joined Nalla at the rear, and the little procession moved towards Mamezan at a good pace.
Father Blandinière with the aid of his warmhearted housekeeper had everything ready at the presbytery for the reception of Nadine and Abel, and for the accommodation of their animals. They were all well fed, and then retired to rest, the children in comfortable beds, and the animals in a warm stable.
It was broad daylight when Cæsar awoke, and being of a strong constitution, he found himself little the worse for the exposure of the previous night. He lay there for a while enjoying the luxury of the soft bed, and then his desire to know about Nadine and Abel impelled him to get up.
He made his way down-stairs, and opening the door, was rejoiced to see the familiar old van in the yard with the faithful Nalla standing beside it, and seeming to be quite himself again.
"Yes—there's your little house on wheels with everything belonging to it," said a kind voice behind him, and Cæsar, turning around, saw the curé's housekeeper smiling pleasantly upon him. "But you must not expect to see your sister and brother for a while yet. They are still sound asleep. They were quite worn out, the poor things!"
Cæsar thanked her warmly for her kindness to them, and went out to the stable to see how Steady was, stopping on the way to pat Nalla's trunk, and to say affectionately:
"You dear monster! I'm so glad you're better. I hope you'll not be ill like that again."
Old Steady set up a joyous neighing as soon as he heard his young master's footsteps. There was nothing the matter with him, and after making his little demonstration he resumed munching the excellent hay with which the manger was liberally supplied.