“You must come and chat to Henderson,” he said. “It will do him a lot of good. He is really better.”
It was true that Colonel Henderson was better. The visit of his friend had prolonged his life, as by a miracle. Colonel Lane had tactfully gained over Mrs. Henderson completely, and had delicately introduced much comfort into the poor home.
Thanks to a big cheque from Mr. Burns, great changes had been made in the house. Also a carriage had been hired on fine days, and the invalid had been carried to it, and enjoyed the drives really wonderfully.
The miserable garden, laid waste by the boys, had been put in order, so the outlook was no longer depressing.
Mrs. Henderson had become quite cheerful under the happier state of things, and absolutely worshipped Colonel Lane.
Poor woman! her own health had not been good since her stay in India, and what with her poverty, her husband’s illness, her difficulty in dealing with the boys, her life had not been all roses.
Colonel Lane had proved more capable of managing the boys than of managing his own girl. He liked them, too. They were healthy, bright, mischievous boys, with plenty of ability.
Both were overjoyed at the prospect of Sandhurst. It had all been arranged by Mr. Burns. They were to have their chance.
Dan stayed at the Hendersons’ about half an hour, and obtained Colonel Lane’s promise to dine at Vine Cottage the following evening. “Supper” would be converted into “dinner” for the occasion.