"I'll listen to no objections," interrupted he. "I couldn't think for a
moment of leaving you two in this condition. You're hardly able to lift
a glass of water, and now you father's ill also. No; I am going with
you, to be your body guard, your servant. Listen! I'm out to see the old
world. I should very much like to begin with Queenstown and Cork."

The father moved, opened his eyes, then sat up He passed his hand over
his face, then looked at the two young people. "It's all right," he
muttered, then lay down again on the pillow. The doctor came with his
medicine. There were now heard the noise of trunks being hoisted from
the hold and the bustle of getting ready to leave the ship.

"Father," said Lucy. "We must soon get ready to leave. Will you be
able?"

"Yes, yes, child"--it seemed difficult for the old man to speak.

"And Chester--Mr. Lawrence--here is to go with us and help us."

"Yes." He nodded as if it was easier to give assent in that way.

"We'll make all things ready, daddy. Don't you worry. Rest as long as
you can. It will be some time yet before you will need to get up."

The sick man nodded again.

"I'll remain here while you get ready," said Chester. "Then you may
attend while I do what little is necessary. I'll let my trunk go right
on to Liverpool.