Page:Beyond the Horizon (1920).djvu/50

34

own, and you don’t know what it means to be parted from them—and Robbie my youngest, too. [Andrew frowns and fidgets in his chair.]

—[A trace of command in his voice.] No use takin’ on so, Katey! It’s best for the boy. We’ve got to take that into consideration—no matter how much we hate to lose him. [Firmly.] And like Dick says, it’s all settled now.

—[Suddenly turning to them.] There’s one thing none of you seem to take into consideration—that Rob wants to go. He’s dead set on it. He’s been dreaming over this trip ever since it was first talked about. It wouldn’t be fair to him not to have him go. [A sudden thought seems to strike him and he continues doubtfully.] At least, not if he still feels the same way about it he did when he was talking to me this evening.

—[With an air of decision.] Andy’s right, Katey. Robert wants to go. That ends all argyment, you can see that.

—[Faintly, hut resignedly.] Yes. I suppose it must be, then.

—[Looking at his big silver watch.] It’s past nine. Wonder what’s happened to Robert. He’s been gone long enough to wheel the widder to home, certain. He can’t be out dreamin’ at the stars his last night.

—[A bit reproachfully.] Why didn’t you wheel Mrs. Atkins back tonight, Andy? You usually do when she and Ruth come over.