Oh, dear, I keep thinking of Dano. I wish I might comfort him. I do not understand why there need be such misery of one kind and another. If I were---- De L'Ester--Pardon me for interrupting you, but here is the station and the conveyance approaches. Ah, Dr. Vyond[a:] will accompany Dano who, as you have remarked, seems dazed. Here is the special transport and a luxurious one it is. No, we cannot accompany the sorrowful youth. We have much to show to your inquiring eyes before you shall be taken to the capitol. Then, too, affairs are not in readiness for our presence there, but, ere long, they will be. The Transport is rising and Dano and the doctor are waving adieux to their friends. To you we offer a like courtesy. George and Inez will again assist you back to Earth. One week hence we will come for you. In the meantime, that you may renew your vital energy, live as much as possible in the open air. Info oovistû. CHAPTER XII. EUROPE AND THE FAR NORTH. De L'Ester--This is the seventh day since we have had the pleasure of greeting you. We are a little early but, as we have in store a joyful surprise for you, you will not chide us for our haste. Why, how sad you are. Ah, I understand. It is four years to-day since your son, Bernard, passed to our side of life. We have informed you that, aside from other motives, the stimulus of a strong desire to be all that your mother love wishes him to be has impelled him to strive for rapid progress, and that his urgent entreaties to allow him to accompany you on these journeys had won our consent. Yes, he soon will be with us; but now close your eyes and be passive. That is well, and--here is your surprise. Gentola--Oh, my boy, my boy, my own dear boy! Is it indeed my boy, Bernard?