During the evening Mr. Ashton called.  He had heard of the arrival of a Mr. Middleton from the Indies, and he had his own particular reason for wishing to see him.  Soon after entering the room, he addressed Mr. Middleton, saying, “Were you in Calcutta twelve years ago?”

“Yes, sir; I was there twenty years ago,” answered Mr. Middleton.

“Do you remember transacting business with the captain of the English vessel ’Delphine’?”

Mr. Middleton thought a moment and then answered, “Yes, I remember that vessel and its captain well.”

“And do you remember a poor cabin boy, who was sick and worn out with the ship fever?” continued Mr. Ashton.

“Oh, yes, yes; I remember him well,” said Mr. Middleton.  “I had him removed to my own house, and nursed him until he was nearly well; and then, he one night ran away from me.  I have never heard from him since; but there was an American vessel anchored near the shore, and I always supposed he went on board and sailed for home.  I would give much to know what became of him.”

“He stands before you,” said Mr. Ashton, rising and grasping Mr. Middleton’s hand.  “He is here to thank you for your kindness, and is both able and willing to repay you for the care you took of him who was alone and friendless in a distant land.”

“Can it be,” said Mr. Middleton, with much emotion, “that you really are Henry Ashton?  I should never have recognized you.”

“I presume not,” answered Ashton.  “Twelve years have transformed the pale, emaciated youth into the tall, full-grown man.  But I should have known you anywhere.”

Here Raymond called out, “Why Ashton, have you been to the Indies?  Why did you never tell us?”

“Because,” replied Ashton, “there was so much of homesickness and suffering attending that voyage to India that I never like to speak of it.”  Then turning to Mr. Middleton, he said, “I have met your brother often, but never suspected him to be a relative of yours.  Have you seen him yet?”

“I have not,” answered Mr. Middleton.  “I intend visiting him tomorrow, and shall be glad, to take as many of you with me as are willing to go.  I wish to be introduced to him as a Mr. Stafford from New Orleans.”

After some further conversation it was arranged that Mr. Miller, Ashton, Stanton, Raymond and Cameron should all accompany Mr. Middleton on his projected visit to his brother.  Soon after Mr. Ashton departed for his boarding place, and the remainder of the company separated for the night.

CHAPTER XV

Mr. Middleton’s brother

Julia’s first exclamation, on waking the next morning, was, “I am glad I am not expected to go home with uncle today, and see father make a precious fool of himself, as he surely will.”

“How can you say so, Julia?” answered Fanny.  “I wish I was going, for I think I could smooth father down a little if he got to using too strong language.”