`` I got into Spencer on the last train last night . I felt that I must come right out -- I could n't wait till morning . But there was n't a team to be got for love or money -- it was Christmas Eve and all the livery rigs were out . So I came on horseback . Just by that bluff something frightened my horse , and he shied violently . I was half asleep and thinking of my little sister , and I went off like a shot . I suppose I struck my head against a tree . Anyway , I knew nothing more until I came to in Mr. Lurgan 's kitchen . I was n't much hurt -- feel none the worse of it except for a sore head and shoulder . But , oh , Gift o ' God , how you have grown ! I ca n't realize that you are the little sister I left four years ago . I suppose you have been thinking I was dead ? '' `` Yes , and , oh , Donald , where have you been ? '' `` Well , I went way up north with a prospecting party . We had a tough time the first year , I can tell you , and some of us never came back . We were n't in a country where post offices were lying round loose either , you see . Then at last , just as we were about giving up in despair , we struck it rich . I 've brought a snug little pile home with me , and things are going to look up in this log house , Gift o ' God . There 'll be no more worrying for you dear people over mortgages . '' `` I 'm so glad -- for Auntie 's sake , '' said Theodora , with shining eyes .
`` But , oh , Donald , it 's best XXXXX all just to have you back .
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