“Perseverance overcomes difficulties,” said Emma, as she carefully deposited the last paper, and turned the key in the lock.

“Hurrah!” shouted George.  “Now we have done it.  Well, really, I did not think it possible:  only imagine the number of parcels in that one trunk, Emma!  What a treat it will be when we get to Jamaica to unpack it all again.  Oh dear! how I wish we were there!”

“Miss Emma, you are wanted,” said Hannah, entering the room; “Mistress cannot find the books that came to-day, and she wants to pack them up.”

“Ah! it is nothing but pack up now all day, and every room is in confusion,” said George, wearily.  “Well, I am glad our share is at an end for this day, for I am heartily tired of the business, and shall be thoroughly glad when there is nothing more left to pack up.”

“Oh! master George, how impatient you are,” exclaimed Hannah.  “But come, you have no time to be grumbling now.  Only look at your dirty fingers, and dinner will be ready in five minutes:  why, you will scarcely be washed before the bell rings;” and the anxious maid bustled out of the room with her weary charge.

The mention of Mr. Stanley’s name requires an explanation.  On the previous evening, when Mr. Wilton returned from his office, he brought with him a letter, which he put into George’s hand after tea, desiring him to read it aloud.  It was from Mr. Stanley, and George almost shouted for joy, when he read that his dear, dear friend was then at Liverpool, and hoped to be with them the next day to dinner.

“What a grand muster we shall have to-night, George,” said Mr. Wilton, while they were waiting the arrival of their expected guest.  “Why, we shall not find sufficient subject for so many speakers, shall we?”

“Oh yes! papa.  Emma and I have been too busy, packing up, to prepare much.  Besides, Mr. Stanley is sure to have a great deal to tell:  he has been away so long, and seeing strange countries all the while.  But there he is!  I saw him pass the window;” and away ran George to embrace his beloved friend.

“What bright eyes and rosy cheeks!” exclaimed Mr. Stanley, kissing his pet.  “My boy has indeed grown since I was here:  why you will soon reach my shoulder.  I suppose, when next I come, I must inquire for Mr. Wilton, junior.  But where is sister Emma, and mamma and papa, and dear, kind Grandy?”

“Oh! they are all in the dining-room,” replied George:  “we were only waiting for you, sir.”

Into the dining-room they went accordingly; and the welcome guest was soon engaged, equally with the rest of the party, in discussing a hearty meal, and the various events that had taken place during his absence.

The hours flew like moments; and the arrival of the other members quite astonished George, who had no idea it was so near seven o’clock.  He was in high glee, as he assisted Charles in placing the chairs and books.  But when Mr. Stanley, taking his hand, requested permission to sit by his side, the proud and happy boy looked doubtingly into his face, not thoroughly comprehending the drift of the request.