He had already much improved during his stay,
and was sure of going back to the city feeling much better than for a
long time past, and this made Mrs. Dunn very happy.
But Archie didn't stay his week out at home. On the fifth night he
attended a reception in his honour at one of the neighbours' houses,
and he was just in the midst of a description of Tokio when a
messenger boy entered with a telegram for him. He opened it at once,
and read it aloud to the company:
"Dear Archie," it said, "return as soon as possible. I sail for Europe
on Saturday's steamer to remain six months, and wish you to accompany
me." It was signed by Mr. Depaw, and there was great applause from the
crowd when he finished reading it. But Archie's face was a study. He
wasn't sure whether he wanted to go to Europe or not, but of course
there was no question about what he should do. He at once telegraphed
a reply, saying that he would reach the city to-morrow at noon,
leaving home on the early morning train.
Of course the reception soon broke up, and Archie walked quietly home
with his mother, who was saddened at the prospect of losing him so
soon again. She soon brightened, however, and began to plan things for
him to do abroad, and soon she entered into the preparation for his
departure with all her heart. But Archie was not so soon made glad,
and he didn't rest until he made his mother promise to accompany him
to the city on the morrow to spend the two days previous to his
departure in helping him get ready.
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