"I expect she meant you were so happy that you did not want any music to
make you happier."

"I was very happy. Oh, Uncle Edward, why won't all the prodigal sons go
home? I can't think why they like staying away. It is so lovely to think
of Tommy now! And every one would be just as happy, wouldn't they?"

"I don't think all young men have such fond parents as your friend
Tommy has," said Sir Edward gravely.

"Haven't they? Well, God's prodigal sons couldn't have a nicer father. I
lie and think of them when I'm in bed sometimes, and I talk to God about
them. I was so glad when Jack went back to Him. I think it is worst of
all to stay a long way off from God, because He does love them so. I
wonder if it is that they don't know whether God will take them back.
Tommy seemed half afraid till he came, that his father would be angry
with him. I should like to see a prodigal son running back into God's
arms so much! But I suppose he does it very quietly, and only the angels
look down and see it!"

"And what is this young scapegrace going to do now? Live on his father
and mother, or is he going to try and do some honest work?"

Sir Edward's tone was rather impatient. Milly looked up surprised.

"Do you mean Tommy, uncle? Are you angry with him? He told me he was
going to look for work directly, and Maxwell is coming up to speak to
you about him to-morrow."