"Mary," said her husband, "don't provide too large a supply of clothing. Tom may find it a burden. Remember, in California, he will have to travel on foot and carry his own baggage."
"Then I think he is already pretty well provided. But some of his clothes may need mending. That won't take long, and I will attend to it at once."
"Perhaps Squire Hudson will go back on you, after all," said Walter.
Tom's face was overcast. That would be a disappointment he could not easily bear.
"I shall soon know," he said.
An hour later Tom and his father set out for Squire Hudson's residence. Tom felt nervous; he could not well help it.
"Tom," said his father, "this is an important visit for you."
"Yes, sir," said Tom.
"You are feeling nervous, I see. Try to take it coolly, and don't feel too low-spirited if things don't turn out as you hope."
"I will try to follow your advice, father, but I am not sure as I can."