They were great friends, and Hughie shared all his secrets with her and knew that they were safe, unless they ought to be told.

And so, when he caught sight of his mother waiting for him before the door, he left Ranald, and thrilling with the memory of the awful peril through which he had passed, rushed at her, and crying, "Oh, mother!" he flung himself into her arms.

"I am so glad to see you again!" "Why, Hughie, my boy, what's the matter ?" said his mother, holding her arms tight about him.

"And you are all wet! What is it ?" But Hughie held her fast, struggling with himself.
"What is it ?" she asked again, turning to Ranald.
"We were running pretty fast--and it is a hot day--and--" But the clear gray-brown eyes were upon him, and Ranald found it difficult to go on.
"Oh, mother, you mustn't ask," cried Hughie; "I promised not to tell." "Not to tell me, Hughie ?" The surprise in the voice was quite too much for Hughie.
"Oh, mother, we did not want to frighten you--and--I promised." "Then you must keep your promise.

Come away in, my boy.