Just before the train rolled into Rotterdam, Chester thought of Glen Curtis. It came to him as a distinct shock when he realized that he had entirely forgotten to enquire about Glen on his former visit. "Well," said he to himself, "so easily do our interests change from one person to another." But now he must find his old friend. He could freely talk to him now even about Julia Elston. Chester learned from the elder in charge at the office, that Elder Curtis was released to return home in a few days. He would be in Rotterdam shortly. When? In a few days. But Chester could not wait that long, so he took train to the city where Glen was laboring, and found him making his farewell rounds. "Well of all things," exclaimed the elder, as Chester took him firmly by the hand. "I'm the last person on earth you expected to see here in Dutchland, I suppose?" "You certainly are. And what are you doing here?" Chester told him as they walked arm in arm along the quiet streets of the town. "And now you're going home. We'll go together," exclaimed Glen. "I wish we could," said Chester, "but I fear that my party is not ready, and Lucy is not well enough to make the trip, I fear." "Lucy?" Chester smiled goodnaturedly, then told him freely of Lucy. "And when you get home, you can tell Julia all about me and mine. It will please her, I am sure. By the way, how is it between Julia and you? I haven't heard lately." "All right," said Glen. "You're a lucky boy," declared Chester, "to get such a girl. There's just _one_ other I would rather have." "I'm glad you think so." "Of course you are--for--oh, for everybody's sake." Chester had to return to Rotterdam the same day, so he claimed. Glen could not keep him longer, and reluctantly waved him off at the station. The boat was slow from the Hook, at least it seemed so to Chester, and there was a high sea which nearly upset him. He got to London too late in the evening to call on the Strong's, but next morning he was out early. Lucy met him in the hall with a cry of delight. "You've come," she whispered as he pressed her close. "Oh, I thought you never would." "My dear, why did you not say? Why did you let me leave you at all?" "I didn't want you to miss anything on my account--but never mind that now--come in. Papa and uncle will be glad to see you. Do you know," she added with evident pleasure, "papa has been _nearly_ as anxious about you as I have,--has continually asked me about you,--and I had to let him read your lovely long letter." "You did? Well, it's all right. There's no harm done, I'm sure. He might as well know everything." "Oh, he knows a lot already." They went into the house, and found seats until the others should appear. "Your face shows signs of suffering, Lucy; but otherwise you look quite well." "That's just it with my trouble. I usually deceive my looks; but I feel better already; and now, let me tell you something else: Father has nearly consented to my being baptized!"