In truth, they were sorry to say good-bye to Mr. Hooper. Unless they made a special trip to the orchard, they might not see him again.
They were certain it would never be as much fun to pick cherries for another orchard owner.
“How long will you be able to keep your place here?” Mrs. Davidson asked the old man.
“That’s hard to tell,” he replied. “As soon as the will is probated, I’ll probably turn over the orchard.”
“Is there no possibility that your sister’s will can be set aside?”
“I was talking to Judge Hutchins about it,” Mr. Hooper said. “I could fight it out in the courts, but it would make an ugly mess. Besides, except for Ella’s first will, I can’t produce any of her handwriting.”
“It seems unfair to lose your beautiful orchard,” Mrs. Davidson murmured. “I wish we could do something to help.”
“It’s just one of those things, ma’am.” Mr. Hooper tried to speak cheerfully. “I’ll find another place. Not in Rosedale though. I intend to move far away.”
“At least you’ll have a good profit from your cherries.”