"If I had a father or mother," said Robert, earnestly, "I should be the last one to run away from them. I have neither father nor mother living."
"Have you no sisters nor brothers?"
"No."
"And you've got to make your own way in the world?" said the sympathizing farmer. "Well, I'm sorry for you."
"If you mean that I am poor, that is not the case," Robert answered. "I have been unfortunate in other ways, but my father left me a fortune, and I am going to my guardian who is in New York."
"Then how comes it that you are out here all alone?"
"I'd rather not tell now," said Robert, frankly. "The time may come when I shall return this way, and shall feel at liberty to tell you all."
"Well, well, my lad, I won't pry into your secrets. I shall be glad to have you stay with me to-night and to-morrow you can go on your way, and no questions asked."
"Thank you," said Robert.
"Now, we'll be goin' into the house, and see if supper isn't most ready. If you've been travelin' it's likely you're hungry, and I reckon the old woman will give us something we can relish."