"Splendid!" cried Sam. "I only hope he clears up everything."
"Don't for the world let Nat know that dad will be here," cautioned Bob.
"Trust me for that. I'm too anxious to have things settled."
The two boys kept together until nearly train time. Then Sam Randall took his departure, while Bob entered the railroad station.
He walked up and down the long platform, viewing the sights with interest. Trucks, loaded with trunks and valises, were being rattled forth and back, while passengers in groups or walking to and fro awaited their trains.
At length a whistle sounded in the distance, a puff of smoke rose above the buildings, then the train rounded a curve and within a few minutes a roar and the hiss of escaping steam filled the air.
Suddenly Bob darted forward. He had caught sight of a stout, prosperous-looking gentleman, who, bag in hand, had alighted.
"Hello, dad!" he cried, seizing his hand.
"Hello, Bob! Glad to see you safe and sound."
"How is mother?"