At the
moment their faces were emerging from dusty veils. Belding saw an
elderly, sallow-faced, rather frail-appearing man who was an entire
stranger to him; a handsome dark-eyed woman whose hair showed
white through her veil; and a superbly built girl, whose face made
Belding at once think of Dick Gale.
"Is this Mr. Tom Belding, inspector of immigration?" inquired the
gentleman, courteously.
"I'm Belding, and I know who you are," replied Belding in hearty
amaze, as he stretched forth his big hand. "You're Dick Gale's
Dad--the Governor, Dick used to say. I'm sure glad to meet you."
"Thank you. Yes, I'm Dick's governor, and here, Mr. Belding--Dick's
mother and his sister Elsie."
Beaming his pleasure, Belding shook hands with the ladies, who
showed their agitation clearly.
"Mr. Belding, I've come west to look up my lost son," said Mr. Gale.
"His sister's letters were unanswered. We haven't heard from him
in months. Is he still here with you?"
"Well, now, sure I'm awful sorry," began Belding, his slow mind
at work. "Dick's away just now--been away for a considerable
spell. I'm expecting him back any day....Won't you come in? You're
all dusty and hot and tired. Come in, and let mother and Nell make
you comfortable. Of course you'll stay. We've a big house. You
must stay till Dick comes back. Maybe that 'll be-- Aw, I guess
it won't be long....Let me handle the baggage, Mr. Gale....Come in.
I sure am glad to meet you all.
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