“Robby,” said Norman, taking his hand, “I know I was very naughty, and that I treated you very ill, but if you will forgive me and let me be your friend, I shall be very thankful. I do indeed feel ashamed of myself.”
Fanny, who overheard this was more than ever satisfied that her brother’s heart was really changed.
Robby thanked Norman, and again told him how glad he was that he had got well, and that he would like to be his friend, and help him, and fight for him if needs be, more than anything else.
The children spent a very happy morning, and the drive did Norman much good.
Captain and Mrs Vallery were most anxious to show their gratitude to old Alec and his grandson. Mrs Vallery among other things they proposed doing, sent to the nearest town for some clothes suitable for little Robby. Mrs Maclean drove over with them, that she might tell her guests how their present was received. Robby opened the parcel himself and could scarcely believe that its contents were for him. He had never before, indeed, been so comfortably dressed. He was unable to find words to express his pleasure, but he did his best to say how grateful he felt for the unexpected gifts. Mrs Maclean undertook to see that he was in future well supplied with warm clothing. The laird likewise engaged a big lad to assist Alec in looking after his cattle and sheep, that Robby might be sent to school; and Captain Vallery purchased several animals, which he presented to the old man, observing that as now he had a servant he would be able to tend a larger number than formerly. Mrs Leslie also made him and his grandson several useful presents. Still Norman acknowledged that for his part, he owed them more than he could ever repay.
At length the time came when Mrs Leslie and her daughter and son-in-law, with their children had to return South. The last visit to old Alec and his grandson was paid. They bade farewell to the kind laird and Mrs Maclean.
The carriage drove to the door, and the journey was begun. Among the luggage was a mysterious package—what it contained Fanny was not allowed to know, and if she was curious about it, she so far restrained her curiosity as not to ask questions. Norman, however, seemed to be acquainted with its contents, and lifting up the thick covering placed over it, he was seen to pour in water and seeds from a little parcel of which his papa had charge.
The railway was soon reached, and while at the station, Norman kept strict watch over the mysterious package.
The party spent only one day in Edinburgh when the package was carried at once into Captain Vallery’s room.
During the journey from Edinburgh to London, it was placed under charge of the guard, who promised faithfully that no harm should befall it.