The fact is, since he had heard from home, his desire to return immediately was lessened.

News of his father's altered circumstances had softened his feelings toward him very much, and created a strong desire to aid him in the extremity to which he had been reduced.

But he had no ability to do this.

All he possessed in the world was about two hundred dollars, and it would take at least half of this to pay his passage home.

Already had his thoughts been reaching Westward, as the only point where, by any possibility, he could better his fortunes to an extent that would enable him to help his father.