“Bring him along by all means. My children will enjoy his company.”
“By the way, how old is your oldest child?”
“Edward is fourteen, only two years younger than your friend. The other two are girls. What is your friend’s name?”
“Gerald Lane.”
“A good name. Is he fond of children?”
“Yes. In our travels he has frequently become acquainted with children, and has always made himself a favorite with them.”
The next Sunday found Gerald and his employer dinner guests at the handsome residence of Mr. Sandford. Before he left, Gerald had made himself an established favorite with the entire Sandford family. The merchant was particularly gracious to him. It was not long before this partiality was to turn to his advantage.
Three weeks later Mr. Brooke received a letter from England which he read with an expression of pain.
“Gerald,” he said, “this letter comes from my sister. My father is seriously ill, and I shall be obliged to return to England at once.”