"No, thank you, my dear," replied Mr. Randall. "I shall be at home before long, and I should only spoil my dinner. Luncheon is a meal only thoroughly enjoyed by young folks. I see somebody I want to speak to, so I will leave you to your repast."
And away went Mr. Randall, leaving Marion disturbed by the idea that he considered her young, which as he was towards seventy, it is very likely he did.
"I have been talking to the conductor about you, my dear," said Mr. Randall when, he came back. "He is acquainted with your family, and he tells me there is a lady on board who is going to the next station to yours, so you will have company. You are sure you know where your checks are—that's right. Don't lose them or your purse, and do just as the conductor tells you, and you will be all right. Good-bye, and God bless you."
Marion had no time to feel lonely, for at the moment they started, the conductor came up with a pretty, delicate-looking woman.
"This is the young lady," said he.
"To be sure," said the stranger, pleasantly. "You are Marion McGregor, my father-in-law's step-daughter. I knew you were expected. But you don't know who I am, of course, I am Asahel Van Alstine's wife, and my name is Gertrude. So I hope you will think of me as your sister."
Mrs. Gertrude's manner was very sweet, and she was both pretty and elegant in appearance. Marion liked her at once.
"I suppose they will meet you at the Falls," continued Gertrude. "I wonder they should let you come from New York alone."
"I did not come alone," said Marion. "Uncle Duncan put me under the care of Doctor Randall."
"Yes, I know for part of the way, but I should have thought Harry might have run up to New York. He goes often enough on his own errands. If Asahel were not expecting me, I would go on to the Falls with you myself. If the boys are not down, I don't know what you will do, for there is no place to stay."