"That is quite right, Luke. Your mother is your best friend, and deserves all the attention you can give her. I shall probably go to Groveton myself to-morrow."
After Luke had left the office, Mr. Reed remained to consult with the merchant as to what was the best thing to do. Both were satisfied that Prince Duncan, the president of the bank, was the real thief who had robbed the bank. There were two courses open—a criminal prosecution, or a private arrangement which should include the return of the stolen property. The latter course was determined upon, but should it prove ineffective, severer measures were to be resorted to.
CHAPTER XXXIX — HOW LUKE WAS RECEIVED
Luke's return to Groveton was received with delight by his mother and his true friend Linton. Naturally Randolph displayed the same feelings toward him as ever. It so chanced that he met Luke only an hour after his arrival. He would have passed him by unnoticed but for the curiosity he felt to know where he had been, and what he was intending to do.
"Humph! so you're back again!" he remarked.
"Yes," answered Luke, with a smile. "I hope you haven't missed me much, Randolph."
"Oh, I've managed to live through it," returned Randolph, with what he thought to be cutting sarcasm.
"I am glad of that."