"'Machgen i, is it thee indeed?
Well, well, I am glad to see thee!" And Will, too, greeted the long-lost one with warm welcome.
The reapers gathered round, and Gethin's reception was cordial enough to satisfy even his anticipations; for he had thought of this home-coming, had dreamt of the welcome, and had earnestly desired it, with the intense longing for home which is almost the ruling passion of a Welshman's heart.
"Here I am," he said, laughing, his eyes sparkling with happiness--"here I am, ready for anything! 'The prodigal son' has returned, father.

Will you have him?
Will you set him to work at once with your hired servants?
For I love hard work, and if I don't get it, perhaps I'll fall into mischief again." "No, no," said Ebben Owens, "no work for thee this morning, lad.

Thee must go home with Will, and lighten Ann's heart, for she has grieved for thee many a time, and I will follow at noon.

To-morrow thou shalt work if thou wilt; there is plenty to do at Garthowen, as usual.

Come, boys, come, on with the work.