to wait for the night train running along the Nile, and
as I do not permit Nell to ride at night, they would leave this
morning and will be here immediately after sunset."

"Yes," said Pan Tarkowski, "Chamis must rest a little, and though Stas
is indeed impulsive, nevertheless, where Nell is concerned you may
always depend upon him. Moreover, I sent him a postal card not to ride
during the night."

"A brave lad, and I trust him," answered Mr. Rawlinson.

"To tell the truth, so do I. Stas with his various faults has an
upright character and never lies, for he is brave, and only a coward
lies. He also does not lack energy and if in time he acquires a calm
judgment, I think he will be able to take care of himself in this
world."

"Certainly. As to judgment, were you judicious at his age?"

"I must confess that I was not," replied Pan Tarkowski, laughing, "but
I was not so self-confident as he."

"That will pass. Meanwhile, be happy that you have such a boy."

"And you that you have such a sweet and dear creature as Nell."

"May God bless her!" answered Mr. Rawlinson with emotion.

The two friends warmly shook hands, after which they sat down to
examine the plans and the report of expenditures connected with the
work. At this occupation the time passed until evening.

About six o'clock, when night fell, they were at the station, strolling
along the walk, and resumed their conversation about the children.

"Superb weather, but cool," said Mr. Rawlinson. "I wonder if Nell took
some warm clothing with her."

"Stas will think of that, and Dinah also."

"I regret, nevertheless, that instead of bringing them here, we did not
go to Medinet."

"You will recollect that that is just what I advised."

"I know, and if it were not that we are to go from here farther south,
I would have agreed. I calculated, however, that the trip would take
too much time and on the whole it would be best to have the children
here. Finally, I will confess to you that Chamis suggested the idea to
me. He announced that he prodigiously yearned for them and would be
happy if I sent for both. I am not surprised that he should be so
attached to them."

Further conversation was interrupted by signals announcing the approach
of the train. After an interval the fiery eyes of the locomotive
appeared in the darkness, and at the same time could be heard its puffs
and whistle.

A row of lighted coaches drew alongside the platform, quivered, and