"But the children, they are all safe," said Mrs. Peakslow, "and we ought to be thankful."
"Thankful! Look a' that linter! Three hundred won't do it!"
"O pa!" cried Zeph, "you've got a great gash on the back o' your head!"
"Never mind the gash," said Peakslow, putting up his hand. "That'll heal itself. Holes in the buildin's won't."
Vinnie meanwhile conferred with Jack and Mr. Betterson, as they were about going away; and also called her sister, and afterward Mrs. Peakslow, to the consultation.
"O, I don't know, Lavinia dear!" said Caroline in great distress of mind.
But Lord Betterson spoke out manfully,—
"Lavinia is right. Mrs. Peakslow, we have plenty of spare room in our house, which you are welcome to till you can do better."
"O Mr. Betterson!" the poor woman sobbed out, quite overcome by this unexpected kindness, "you are too good!"
"I beg your pardon," replied Lord Betterson, in his most gracious manner. "We wish simply to do as we might wish neighbors to do by us under similar circumstances. Our boys will help yours get your things over to my house,—whatever you want, Mrs. Peakslow."