CHAPTER XXXVIII
AN OPENING AT SHELBY
At length they reached Shelby. Colonel Owen lived in a large and handsome mansion with ample grounds.
“Yes,” he said, “I have a comfortable home, but my boys are away, and my wife and I feel lonely in this large house. It will brighten us both to have a young face at the table.”
How could Walter feel otherwise than pleased. He was charmed with Mrs. Owen.
“I am glad to see you,” she said. “May I call you Walter?”
“I wish you would, Mrs. Owen,” said Walter.
“Did you find your horse, Richard?” she added.
“Yes, my dear.”
“Did you see the man that stole it?”