"Maybe they'll be sending some more from somewheres."
"Like enough; but you won't get much more from Aireyholme."
"Why not?" asked Mr. Gartley much aggrieved.
"Because the young ladies is going away next week."
"Aye; the school's always shut up in holiday time. Miss Aubrey and Mrs. Franklin goes away too."
The news appeared to make Bob thoughtful, and he pondered over it for a few moments.
"I suppose that young lady'll be takin' that little cupboard with her," he remarked at last.
"Why, you stupid, the one as she put in the picture with Granny Blundell and our Hugh. She'd bought it from Mrs. Stubbs."
"Oh, I remember. Yes, if she's bought it and paid for it, of course she'll be takin' it with her."
"It's hard for a poor man to be tied to his bed as helpless as a log!" groaned Bob. "Goodness knows what she'll do with it if she takes it away! Sell it again, maybe. Anyways, I shall be off the track of it."
"What do you mean?" queried his wife. "I can't see as you've got aught to do with Miss Marsden's cupboard."
"You never could see farther than your nose, Jane. Some of they young ladies has been very good to a poor man. I'd a-died if they hadn't found me in the wood."
"Why, yes, I know that!" exclaimed Mrs. Gartley, immensely amazed at such an unwonted outburst of gratitude.
"It might be good for a fiver," murmured Bob. "That's little enough, but it would be better than missin' everything. Look here, Jane. Send Mary across to Aireyholme, and tell her to say I'd like to see Miss Hamilton on a bit of special business."
"What's it all about?" asked Mrs. Gartley inquisitively.
"Never you mind. Leave that to me, and send the child as I tell you."
Little Mary Gartley arrived with her message soon after four o'clock, just as Githa was leaving school. Gwethyn was walking with her down the drive, being in fact on her way to the Gartleys' cottage to leave a basketful of fruit from Mrs. Franklin. Both girls were much astonished at the summons.
"Are you sure your father wants me?" asked Githa.
"Yes, miss. He said most particular as it was Miss Hamilton."
"Come with me, Gwethyn!" begged Githa. "You have to call at the door, in any case. I'm sure Mrs. Franklin wouldn't mind your going in. Perhaps Mr. Gartley wants to thank us for our 'First Aid'. I don't like going alone."