"So you should have done, you poor darlings, but for that accident," said Valentine.
"And we were to see the pears and apples gathered, and have such fun. Do you know that you're a sort of uncle now to us?"
"What sort? The right sort?"
"Yes, and now when shall we come?"
"I am afraid I shall be away all the winter."
"In the spring, then, and father and the dear mamma."
"It's a long time till the spring," said Valentine, with a sigh; "but if
I am at Melcombe then-"
"You'll have us?"
"Yes."
"Then let it be in the Easter holidays," said Johnnie, "that I may come too."