While Robert was telling the story the stage drove up and George got on board.
“Good-by, George!” said Herbert.
George did not deign a reply and rode sullenly away.
“He doesn’t find that the climate of Cook’s Harbor suits him,” said Herbert significantly.
“He doesn’t seem very happy about going,” said Robert. “I didn’t expect he would notice me, but he did not bid you good-by.”
“The fact is George and I have had a flare-up,” said Herbert. “I was disgusted with his heartlessness in refusing to take you from Egg Island, and I told him so pretty plainly. He accused me of insulting him and threatened to lay a complaint before my mother. I requested him to do so. Considerably to his surprise, she took my part and reproved him for his selfish and disagreeable pride. This was too much for the young gentleman, and he gave notice that he should return to the city. No one attempted to keep him, and he has felt compelled to carry out his threat, a good deal to his disappointment.”
“I am sorry you are losing your visitor on my account, Herbert.”
“You needn’t. Though he is my cousin, I am glad to have him go.”
“But you will feel lonely.”
“Not if you come to see me every day, Bob.”