“As to homesickness—it depends on what you call homesickness. My heart was ay turning homewards, but not with any thought that I had been wrong or foolish to leave Scotland. No, I am not sorry I went to America when I did.”
And then, turning to Allison he added:
“And yet I had no intention of staying there when I went. If it hadna been the thought of finding Willie, I would never have turned my face to Barstow. Indeed, I think your Willie and his trust in me, and perhaps also my care for him, has had more to do with my contentment, yes, and with my success, than all else together.”
“I am glad,” said Allison, and her impulse was to put out her hand again. But she did not. She only said:
“How long do you think of staying in Scotland?”
“Only as long as my mother needs to make ready for the journey.”
“And when you go will you pass this way? I should like well to see your mother, and say good-bye before she goes away.”
“You must go borne for a while to the manse, Allie. That is what you must do,” said Robert.
“No,” said Allison, “I would like a quiet day with her here far better.”
“And you shall have it,” said John heartily. “That will be far better than to be there in the confusion of leaving.”