"Here they come—papa, Aunt Mary and the doctor," said Nellie, as footsteps were heard ascending the stairs; "I hope they haven't found many objections."
Everybody was smiling as they entered, and the doctor said: "Mrs. Page, no doubt the little ones have prepared you for our verdict. We have decided to send you to the hot springs. The sooner you are ready to start the better."
CHAPTER II.
THE JOURNEY.—FRANCISCO.
On a bright morning in early June, Charlie Dorner drove up to the Pages' door with a large camping wagon, to which two strong, stout mules were harnessed. The wagon was then laden with things brought from the house in barrels, boxes, baskets, and bundles. One not familiar with the capacity of California mules would have thought it impossible for two animals to haul the tremendous load on the long climb, which was to end sixty miles in the mountains, three thousand feet above the level of the sea.
Charlie Holden, in a suit of corduroy, with high boots and leggings, and a huge sombrero of Mexican make on his curly red head, excited the admiration of Walter, who had never seen him before. The mules started off without balking after one crack of Charlie's whip. The speed with which they started was not great, but Mr. Page, who stood with the children watching the departure, said they would be likely to keep the same pace until their destination was reached on the afternoon of the following day.
"I'd like awfully well to go along," said Walter. "I wish I had thought of it before. Would you have let me go, papa?"
"No; I think it is better that we should all keep together," said Mr. Page. "I am sure mother would not have considered it for a moment."
"I think it is nearly time to start, don't you, father?" inquired Nellie, consulting a diminutive silver watch which her mother had given her on her tenth birthday. "Why, it's almost eight o'clock, and the train goes at nine."
Mr. Page laughed. "The cab will not be here before half-past," he said; "and even then we shall have more than ample time to reach the train."