“Yes,” assented Mr Oswald, rather absently. “He might as well have a holiday now as any time. And, Philip, I expect you to take your own place in the office after this regularly.”
Philip shrugged his shoulders, when his father was not looking to see.
“I’ll give it a trial,” said he.
“And can I go to-morrow, Mr Caldwell?” said David. “I have no preparations to make, and I should like to take them by surprise.”
“By all means. I should like to go with you and see it,” said Philip. “But, I suppose, that would hardly do—just at present.”
David bade them good-night, and went down the street with Mr Caldwell.
“I am much obliged to you, sir. I am very glad to get away from the office for awhile, to say nothing of going to Gourlay and seeing them all.”
David’s eyes sparkled at the thought.
“Well! You have borne your trouble not so ill,” said Mr Caldwell; “and you may tell your mother I said so.”
David laughed; but he looked grave in a moment.