Ten days had elapsed when Frank was seen hurrying up the road
with something in his hand.

Alice saw him first, and ran in, exclaiming, "Mother, I do
believe Frank has got a letter from father. He is running up the
road."

Mrs. Frost at once dropped her work, no less interested than her
daughter, and was at the door just as Frank, flushed with
running, reached the gate.

"What'll you give me for a letter?" he asked triumphantly.

"Give it to me quick," said Mrs. Frost. "I am anxious to learn
whether your father is well."

"I guess he is, or he wouldn't have written such a long letter."

"How do you know it's long?" asked Alice. "You haven't read it."

"I judge from the weight. There are two stamps on the envelope. I
was tempted to open it, but, being directed to mother, I didn't
venture."

Mrs. Frost sat down, and the children gathered round her, while
she read the following letter:

"CAMP--------, Virginia.