He saw Tom read on, first with incredulity, then sheer amazement, and finally a look of supreme joy came upon his countenance that spoke even louder than his words could the revelation that had come to his faithful heart.
“Oh! Hugh! Hugh! would you believe it, Benjy’s all right? He’s—he’s—oh! I’m so happy I hardly know what to say! Read his note, Hugh, please!”
CHAPTER XII.
CLEAR SAILING AHEAD.
Hugh took the missive from Tom’s hand, and at the same time managed to see what was written on the outside of the carefully done-up package that the other had laid on the top of the chiffonier.
“To Brother Tom: Wishing him many happy returns of his birthday. From Benjy!”
Even before Hugh read a single word in the note he believed he had a pretty clear comprehension as to the true state of affairs. His heart, too, was bounding with sudden relief over the happy outcome of the troublesome matter, although it was not to be expected that, being an outsider, Hugh could feel one-quarter the joy that filled Tom’s soul.
The letter ran as follows:
“Dear Tom:
“Here’s the best thing I could think of to get you. It’s a whole lot better than your old racket ever was, which I am having repaired for my own use. I’ve taken a liking to tennis lately. And, Tom, you’ll be glad to know I’ve thrown that whole crowd overboard, and I mean to make an application to join the scouts the first chance I get. Perhaps you would like to propose my name. Many happy returns of the day, Tom. I’m beginning to realize what a whole lot I owe you for keeping everlastingly at me, even when I kept turning you down. But I want to forget all that now, for it can never happen again with me.
“Your brother, Benjy.”
Hugh folded up that note with a feeling of delight he had seldom experienced before. Then Benjy was turning out to be a splendid sort of fellow! Hugh anticipated he might prove to be that once he made up his mind to break away from those evil connections that were pulling him into the mire.
He must have been really hunting for the old tennis racquet on that other occasion when caught rummaging through Tom’s trunk. He had appeared confused because he feared his secret might be discovered. He had not only taken every cent he had in his bank to pay for the new racquet, but had actually sold his valuable Belgian hares in order to make up the amount he still owed at the sporting goods store.