After the evening's service Rufus walked all the way back to St. Gaved, so that he might be in time for his work on the following morning. The way did not seem a bit long. He had so much to think about, so much to dream about, so much to be grateful for and to rejoice in, that the old church tower loomed into sight before he knew he had covered half the distance.
He astonished Captain Tom next morning by throwing up his post.
"You really don't mean it?" was the incredulous reply.
"I do. I am going to America, and the sooner you can let me off the better I shall be pleased." And he told Captain Tom some of the things that had happened.
"You are in the right of it, sonny," was the reply. "Yes, you are in the right," and he laughed, good-humouredly. "And, mark my words, we shall see some time what we shall see."
"No doubt about that," Rufus answered, with a smile.
"I'm glad you think so. Yes, some time we shall see what we shall see," and he laughed again. "But,"—and he took off his hat and scratched his head, "my stars! but won't it be just——Well, well, we'll wait and see. You have my best wishes, sonny, and my blessing."
On the following Saturday but one, Rufus sailed for New York.