It was with a heavy heart, no doubt, that all three beheld once more the gates of Castlewood.
A servant in advance had been sent to announce their coming.

First came Mrs.Mountain and her little daughter, welcoming Harry with many tears and embraces, but she scarce gave a nod of recognition to Mr.
Washington; and the little girl caused the young officer to start, and turn deadly pale, by coming up to him with her hands behind her, and asking, "Why have you not brought George back too ?" Harry did not hear.
The sobs and caresses of his good friend and nurse luckily kept him from listening to little Fanny.
Dempster was graciously received by the two ladies.

"Whatever could be done, we know you would do, Mr.Dempster," says Mrs.Mountain, giving him her hand.

"Make a curtsey to Mr.Dempster, Fanny, and remember, child, to be grateful to all who have been friendly to our benefactors.
Will it please you to take any refreshment before you ride, Colonel Washington ?" Mr.Washington had had a sufficient ride already, and counted as certainly upon the hospitality of Castlewood, as he would upon the shelter of his own house.
"The time to feed my horse, and a glass of water for myself, and I will trouble Castlewood hospitality no further," Mr.Washington said.
"Sure, George, you have your room here, and my mother is above-stairs getting it ready!" cries Harry.

"That poor horse of yours stumbled with you, and can't go farther this evening." "Hush! Your mother won't see him, child," whispered Mrs.Mountain.
"Not see George?
Why, he is like a son of the house," cries Harry.
"She had best not see him.