"Not for nothing, dear," replied Patsy, softly, "for we've helped make two people happy, and that ought to repay us for all our anxiety and labor."
* * * * *
A knock was heard at the door, and Old Hucks entered and handed Mr.
Merrick a paper.
"He's waiting, sir," said he, ambiguously.
"Oh, Tom—Tom!" cried Joe Wegg, rising to throw his arms around the old man's neck, "I'm rich, Tom—all my troubles are over—and Mr. Merrick has done it all—for Ethel and me!"
The ever smiling face of the ancient retainer did not change, but his eyes softened and filled with tears as he hugged the boy close to his breast.
"God be praised. Joe!" he said in a low voice. "I allus knew the
Merricks 'd bring us luck."
"What the devil does this mean?" demanded Uncle John at this juncture, as he fluttered the paper and glared angrily around.
"What is it, dear?" inquired Louise.
"See for yourself," he returned.