3 Leaving Home

CHAPTER 3 Leaving Home The week before they sailed for England, Cedric did many things, thanks to his grandfather. He helped the very old apple- woman of ancient lineage by giving her a stove and a shawl and some money. When he gave her the money, she gasped. She could hardly believe her great fortune. Cedric also helped his friend Dick, the shoeshine boy. He went to the corner to tell him the news. He said that he had become a lord, and was in danger of being an earl if he

lived long enough. Dick jumped, and his cap fell off. "I didn't think I would like it myself," Cedric said. "But I like it better now that I'm used to it. The one who is the earl now—he's my grandfather— is very kind. He sent me a lot of money, and I've brought some so you can buy the business from Jake." Cedric tried to speak steadily, but his voice trembled a little. "Well, good-bye. And I hope business will be good. I'm sorry I'm going away. But I hope you'll write to me, because we were always good friends. And if you write, here's where you must send your letter." He gave Jake a slip of paper. "And my name isn't Cedric Errol anymore. It's Lord Fauntleroy and—and goodbye, Dick." Dick blinked his eyes to keep from crying. He was so surprised, he didn't know what to say. "I wish you wasn't goin' away," was all

he got out. Then he blinked his eyes again. And when he opened them, Cedric was gone. Cedric also made Mr. Hobbs promise to write him, and gave him a gold watch and chain. Mr. Hobbs was depressed about his friend leaving. He felt funny about taking such an expensive gift. He laid the case on his stout knee and blew his nose several times. "There's something written on it," said Cedric. "It says 'From his oldest friend, Lord Fauntleroy, to Mr. Hobbs. When this you see, remember me.' I don't want you to forget me." Mr. Hobbs blew his nose very loudly again. "I won't forget you," he said. "And don't you forget me when you get among those British lords."

"I shouldn't forget you whoever I was among," said Cedric. "I hope you will come see me sometime. I'm sure my grandfather would be pleased. You—you wouldn't stay away just because he's an earl, would you?" "I'd come to see you," replied Mr. Hobbs. So it was agreed that if Mr. Hobbs received an invitation from the earl to come and spend some time at Dorincourt Castle, he would ignore how he felt about earls and pack his suitcase right away. At last the day came for Cedric to leave for England. The trunks were taken to the ship, and the carriage waited at the door. When Mrs. Errol came downstairs, her eyes were large and wet. Her mouth

trembled. Cedric put his arms around her. "We liked this little house, Dearest, didn't we?" he said. "And we will always like it, won't we?" "Yes, darling," she answered in a low voice. And then, before they knew it, they were on the ship. There was noise and confusion everywhere. Carriages were parked all along the shore. Big trunks and cases were being bumped down and dragged about. Sailors were hurrying to and fro. Officers were giving orders. Ladies and gentlemen and children and nurses were coming on board. Suddenly Cedric noticed someone coming toward him. It was a boy with something red in his hand. It was Dick! "I've run all the way," Dick said, out of breath. "Business has been prime. I bought this for you out o' what I made yesterday. It's a handkerchief."

A bell rang and he leaped away before Cedric had time to speak. "Good-bye!" Dick panted. "I hope you like it!" A few seconds later, Cedric saw him struggle through the crowd and rush off the ship just in time. Dick stood on the shore and waved his cap as the ship started to pull away. Cedric waved his new handkerchief back. It was made of bright red silk, with purple horseshoes and horses' heads embroidered on it. "Good-bye, Dick!" he shouted, hoping his friend could still hear him. "Thank you!"