"Sit down again," said the squire; "I want to talk to you about this matter. How long have you been thinking of California?"
"Only two or three days, sir."
"What made you think of it?"
"I wanted to help father."
"Who has told you about California?"
"I have read about it in the papers."
"Have you spoken to your father about going there?"
"I have spoken to him about leaving home, and seeking my fortune; but I have not mentioned going to California, because I thought it impossible to raise the necessary money."
"Of course. That's sensible, at least."
Squire Hudson rose and walked thoughtfully about the room, occasionally casting a keen glance at Tom, who remained sitting, with his pail of huckleberries in his cap.