“It is asking too much of the child, and I do not see how you can do it,” was the sharp reply. “I will send for them as soon as I get enough ahead to set up housekeeping,” promised Mr. Hill.
“Henry, when are you going to bring those children here?” she asked of him a few weeks later.
“Austin is working there and the others are helping him, and they are getting on so well I hate to bother them,” he answered.
CHAPTER 4. — AUSTIN GOES TO HIS FATHER
One evening Austin and the children were coming home from their work in the gardens, tired and lonely. They could not get used to coming to the house so quiet and empty. Home was not as it used to be, but the brave children were making the best of it.
“I wonder if there will be a letter from Papa,” Amy said as they drew near the mail-box, “and if he has a new home for us yet. I should like to see Grandma, and I do want to see Doyle and Lila.” Harry, running on ahead, reached into the box and drew out a letter, at sight of which the other children quickened their steps. It was addressed to Austin and was in their father’s handwriting:
“Dear Austin, I have gotten things in shape to have you children come to me. I will send you tickets in a few days. In the meantime dispose of the things in the house excepting what you can bring in your trunks. Uncle John will help you do this and see that you get started all right. Write me a card early enough so that I shall know when to meet you. We are all well. Henry Hill.”
Austin was trembling all over with excitement mingled with tears. He was glad for the change, for the loneliness was nearly killing him, but he hated to leave Uncle John and his family, and all the neighbors, and Mother’s grave. He had almost ceased to hope that his father would send for them, but here was the letter at last.