The Temple family took special care to avoid all disquieting allusions. They never in conversation referred to their guest’s past history, at least to that part of his life which preceded his arrival on the Pacific coast.
All these particulars were communicated to Tom by Mr. Percival when they were on their way to the city.
“Don’t you think there is any chance of father’s recovery?” asked our hero, considerably troubled.
“Yes I believe the sight of you will have a powerful effect.”
“But I was only a little boy when father left us. He will hardly be able to see any resemblance between me and the little boy he left behind him.”
“Tell him your name. Speak to him of your mother and sister; it may awaken old memories and associations.”
This advice seemed good to Tom and he determined to follow it.
When on the day of his arrival in San Francisco he went out with the banker to the little cottage where his father was domesticated, Tom felt agitated, and with reason. He was about to see the father whom he had long supposed to be dead, and to test the possibility of his recovery.
“Is that he?” asked Tom, clutching the arm of Mr. Percival.
“Yes, Tom. Would you recognize him?”