When Vinzenz Lesa returned home in the evening, the first question he asked his wife was, “Well, what did you settle with the gentleman?”
She told him about their conversation and her having put off a decided answer until she knew what he thought about it.
“But I am quite sure, Vinzenz,” she concluded, “if this gentleman comes to live with us he is sure to bring a blessing to our home.”
“I suppose we need not scorn it,” replied the farmer. “You had better send him word that we expect him soon.”
His wife did so with joy in her heart and a few days ago later Mr. Delrick moved into Mr. Lesa’s house.
CHAPTER V
BANISHMENT
DURING the first half of the journey Vinzi had not spoken. The thought that he was to spend a long time in the midst of strangers far from his home lay heavily upon him. He hardly realized what went on about him. In Berisal his companion took him to the inn belonging to his father’s friend. When the latter had questioned the boy sufficiently about the trip, he found it wise for Vinzi to have supper and immediately go to bed, as he was sure to be tired from the long waken till his fellow-traveller firmly shook him the next morning. As the sun was already high, it was necessary to hurry; but that did not trouble Vinzi, for he was used to that at home. On the days when they had gone to the pasture Stefeli was nearly always dressed when he got up, and he had had to be quick to get ready in time. Oh, if only Stefeli were there now to call him, and if only his mother would come in to say a few friendly words! Vinzi had to fight hard to keep back the tears. He was dressed in a short time and sat down to his cup of coffee in the room where his companion awaited him. The two companions went silently up the mountain. Poor Vinzi felt stranger and stranger as he neared his destination.
“Look, boy,” said the young workman, who had been whistling all the time, “do you see that stone house?”