The kind face told them instantly that Demi had no father now , for it was worn and pale , and full of tender grief , which left him no words with which to answer Rob , as he ran to him , saying , reproachfully , `` What made you go and leave me in the night , papa ? '' The memory of the other father who had left his children in the night , never to return , made Mr. Bhaer hold his own boy close , and , for a minute , hide his face in Robby 's curly hair . Emil laid his head down on his arms , Franz , went to put his hand on his uncle 's shoulder , his boyish face pale with sympathy and sorrow , and the others sat so still that the soft rustle of the falling leaves outside was distinctly heard . Rob did not clearly understand what had happened , but he hated to see papa unhappy , so he lifted up the bent head , and said , in his chirpy little voice , `` Do n't cry , mein Vater ! we were all so good , we did our lessons , without you , and Franz was the master . '' Mr. Bhaer looked up then , tried to smile , and said in a grateful tone that made the lads feel like saints , `` I thank you very much , my boys . It was a beautiful way to help and comfort me . I shall not forget it , I assure you . '' `` Franz proposed it , and was a first-rate master , too , '' said Nat ; and the others gave a murmur of assent most gratifying to the young dominie . Mr. Bhaer put Rob down , and , standing up , put his arm round his tall nephew 's shoulder , as he said , with a look of genuine pleasure , `` This makes my hard day easier , and gives me confidence in you all . I am needed there in town , and must leave you for some hours . I thought to give you a holiday , or send some of you home , but if you like to stay and go on as you have begun , I shall be glad and proud of my good boys . '' `` We 'll stay ; '' `` We 'd rather ; '' `` Franz can see to us ; '' cried several , delighted with the confidence shown in them . `` Is n't Marmar coming home ? '' asked Rob , wistfully ; for home without `` Marmar '' was the world without the sun to him . `` We shall both come to-night ; but dear Aunt Meg needs Mother more than you do now , and I know you like to lend her for a little while . '' `` Well , I will ; but Teddy 's been crying for her , and he slapped Nursey , and was dreadful naughty , '' answered Rob , as if the news might bring mother home . `` Where is my little man ? '' asked Mr. Bhaer . `` Dan took him out , to keep him quiet .
He 's all right now , '' said XXXXX , pointing to the window , through which they could see Dan drawing baby in his little wagon , with the dogs frolicking about him .
Bhaer Demi Emil Franz Mother Nat Rob dominie left minute