They were greeted with kindly dignity by Mrs. Robinson and with girlish good humor by Tessie. Mrs. Robinson received them with the same self-possession she would have shown had they been back at Tower Mansion, and Frank wondered at himself for thinking that these good people might be ashamed to meet their old friends in this new and humbler home.

“We can’t stay long,” explained Callie. “But Frank and I just thought we’d run out to see how you all are.”

“We’re all well⁠—that’s one mercy to be thankful for,” answered Mrs. Robinson. “Perry is working. I suppose you knew that.”

“And Mr. Robinson?” inquired Frank.

She shook her head.