They walked on; Edward said but little, for his heart was full, but he frequently kissed little Roger.
Coming at length to a stile from which a path led across a little close, “This is the way to our house,” said Rose.
The other children parted. Edward set down Roger, and got over the stile. He still, however, kept hold of the boy’s hand. He trembled, and looked wildly around him.
When they approached the house, an old mastiff came running to meet the children. He looked up at Edward rather sourly, and gave a little growl; when all at once his countenance changed; he leaped upon him, licked his hand, wagged his tail, murmured in a soft voice, and seemed quite overcome with joy. Edward stooped down, patted his head, and cried, “Poor Captain, what! are you alive, yet?” Rose was surprised that the stranger and their dog should know one another.
They all entered the house together. A good-looking middle-aged woman was busied in preparing articles of cookery, assisted by her grown-up daughter. She spoke to the children as they came in, and casting a look of some surprise on Edward, asked him what his business was.
Edward was some time silent; at length, with a faltering voice, he cried, “Have you forgot me, mother?”
“Edward! my son Edward!” exclaimed the good woman. And they were instantly locked in each other’s arms.
“My brother Edward!” said Molly; and took her turn for an embrace, as soon as her mother gave her room.
“Are you my brother?” said Rose.
“That I am,” replied Edward, with another kiss. Little Roger looked hard at him, but said nothing.