"I feel rather inclined that way. How is our friend Peakslow?"
"Don't know; he went to Chicago, and he hasn't got back."
"Hasn't got back!" said Jack, astonished. "That's mean business!"
He smothered his vexation, however, and told the boys that he would go with them to the river, after he had spoken with Vinnie.
Entering the house, he was still more surprised at the changes which had taken place since his last visit.
"Her coming has been the greatest blessing!" said Caroline, detaining him in the sitting-room. "We are all better,—the doctor noticed it yesterday; Cecie and baby and I are all better. Lavinia dear will see you presently; I think she is just taking some bread out of the oven."
"Let me go into the kitchen—she won't mind me," said Jack.
Vinnie, rosy-red from her baking, met him at the door. He had been very anxious about her since he left her there; but a glance showed him that all had gone well.
"You have survived!" he said.
"Yes, indeed!" she replied. "I told you I would make things pleasant here."