The last of April brought home the travellers. Harry was quite himself again, and both Mr. and Mrs. Van Alstine much benefited by the long rest and freedom from care. It was very delightful to have the whole family at home once more, but it did not last long.
Gerty claimed Marion's promise to come and make her a long visit. She promised to take every care of her, and urged, with some show of reason, that the change of air and scene would be very good for Marion after her long confinement.
"I hate to have you go, Marion," said Bram, who was still Marion's special friend among the boys. "Honestly, now, do you like it yourself?"
"Honestly, Bram, I am not in love with it."
"Then why do you go?"
"That is a wise question, Master Abraham. Because I promised."
"Well, that was before you were sick."
"I know that, but I am well now, or nearly so. And besides, Gerty wants me, and I can't help feeling sorry for her. I don't believe, from what Mrs. Landon says, that she has much society."
Mrs. Landon was the minister's wife in Rock Bottom, who had been over to call upon Marion.
"It is her own fault, then, for there are plenty of nice people in Rock Bottom."