At length a telegram came from the travelers to say that they had reached Glenalvan Hall, and Mr. Chesleigh was no better. After this these bulletins came almost daily, but with no encouraging words. Very ill, and no prospect of improvement yet, was their daily burden.
In about two weeks Mr. Desmond returned unexpectedly.
Ruby was overjoyed. She laughed and wept together, as she hung around his neck.
"Uncle Bertie must be better, or you would not have returned," she cried.
But her father shook his head gravely.
"No, dear, I am sorry to say he is not improving at all. Indeed the case is so critical that it may be weeks before your mother can return. That is why I have come."
"Shall you go back, then?" inquired Ruby.
"Yes, in about a week. Have you fretted for us very much, Ruby?"
"A great deal," she replied. "Oh, papa," clapping her little hands, "now I know why you have come back. You are going to take me to mamma and Uncle Bert."
"Nothing is further from my intentions," replied Mr. Desmond. "I have come to take you to the seashore."