"I don't know," Harold returned in a tone of hesitation; "these poor, wounded, and sick fellows——"
"You'll be down on your back as sick as any of them if you stay here another week," growled Herbert. "And with nobody to take care of you you'll die, and that'll break mother's heart. And as you are working without pay, you've a right to go as soon as you will."
"Yes," said the captain, "and if you fall sick you'll be no service, but only in the way. Better let me attend to the necessary arrangements for you, and carry you off along with your brother."
After a little hesitation Harold consented to that, saying that after seeing Herbert on board the yacht he would return, make all necessary arrangements, bid good-bye to his patients, then board the Dolphin for the homeward voyage.
"That's right, brother mine," Herbert said, with a pleased smile; "I'd be very unwilling to go, leaving you here alone; and what would mother say?"
It took but a few minutes to pick up their few belongings, and they were soon on the deck of the yacht receiving the warm greetings of their brothers and cousins, who, however, seemed greatly concerned over their weary and haggard looks.
"You are worn out, lads," said Edward, "and the best and kindest thing we can do will be to carry you up north to a cooler climate; and to mother and the others, who will, I hope, be able soon to nurse you back to health and strength."
"So say I," said Chester.
"And I," added Walter. "I have always found mother's nursing the best to be had anywhere or from anybody."