"Good-bye, then," she answered. "Dear Mr. Strafford, you know I have long ago given up trying to thank you for all you do for me; you must accept obedience as a proof of gratitude."
"See that you do obey me then," he replied smiling, "by taking care of yourself. Have you any message for Lucia?"
"Do you not think she might come here?"
"Yes, perfectly well. Shall I tell her you expect her?"
"Please."
"And you will return to Mrs. Bellairs with her?"
"We shall see. I do not promise."
"Well, I will not ask too much. Good-bye."
He went to the bedside, took Christian's hand and bade him also good-bye. He was roused for a moment, but his thoughts still returned to the old days.
"Adieu! father," he said; "I think I shall be gone when you come back. Do you know that I am going on a journey? They will not tell me where, but I shall not forget you all here. Ask the Saints to bring me safe back."