"If we get clear of Mr. Hall's note, you can do better by me. Until then, let that be the arrangement."
"You don't know what a load you have lifted from my mind, John. I am very sorry that you have been driven from home; but I am very glad to have you here. Martha, get ready the back bedroom for John."
"I begin to feel myself at home already," said John, brightly.
"Our home is a humble one compared with the one you have left, John," said his aunt.
"But you are here, aunt, and you seem like my own mother. That will make more than the difference to me."
"I hope we can make you comfortable, John. Martha, you may set the table for supper, and get John's room ready afterwards. I think he must be hungry."
"I am as hungry as a bear, aunt," said John, smiling.
In the evening Martha went into the store by her mother's request, and asked Mr. Hall to step in after closing the store.
He did so.