It was past "hog-killing time" in East Wellmouth, but Thankful had given up the idea of turning Patrick Henry into spare ribs and lard, at least until her lively young relative's visit was at an end.

That end was what Georgie feared.

He did not want to go home.

Certainly Thankful did not want him to go, and she and Captain Obed--the latter's fondness for his "second mate" stronger than ever--wrote to Miss Howes, begging her to use her influence with the family to the end that Georgie's visit might be prolonged until after Christmas, at any rate.
And in Emily's reply, the letter which Kenelm brought from the postoffice that morning, the permission was granted.

Georgie might stay until New Year's Day.
Then [wrote Emily], he must come back with me.