"But he was not kind to my mother. Although he was rich, he let her suffer."
"He has repented of this, and will try to make up to you his neglect to your mother."
Mark was still thoughtful. "If it had come sooner, my poor mother might still have been alive," he said.
"I think I had better telegraph to Mr. Bates to-morrow," said Richard. "The news will be so welcome that I don't like to keep it back a single day."
"Perhaps it will be better," said Fosdick. "You will have to give up your ward, Dick."
"Yes; but as it will be for his good, I will not object."
The next morning the following message was flashed over the wires to Milwaukie:—
"Hiram Bates.
"Your grandson is found. He is well, and in my charge.
"Richard Hunter."
In the course of the forenoon, the following answer was received:—