Which arrangement took effect; and in a very few minutes thereafter, Dr. Harrison's horse making much better speed than old Crab could do now, Faith was deposited safely at Judge Harrison's door. There she was received with open arms and great exultation by Miss Sophy and with great cordiality and pleasure by the Judge; and with a certain more uncertain amount of both by Mrs. Somers, whom Faith found there, the only addition to the family party; while the doctor stood complacently on the rug, in silence surveying everybody, like a man who has gained his point.
"Well Julius," said Mrs. Somers, "how's Mr. Linden to-night? did you see him?"
"Yes ma'am—I saw him."
"Well how is he?" repeated Mrs. Somers.
"He is—very happily situated," said the doctor. "I should like to be in his place."
"What do you go there twice a day for? Do you think him worse? You began with going once," said Mrs. Somers.
"Always begin gently," said Dr. Harrison. "You get on faster."
"How soon do you expect to take up your abode there altogether, at that rate?"
"At what rate, aunt Ellen? You are too fast for me."
"Nonsense!" said Mrs. Somers, "do you suppose I want to be told what you go there for?—what I do want to know, is whether he's like to get well, and how soon."