THE FAREWELL.
After many consultations and long reflection, Mr. Merritt decided to
emigrate to the West. Though repeatedly urged by the new purchaser to
remain for a time at his old home, he refused, being determined, as he
said, to try farming, and the new country.
About two months after the sale, Mr. Merritt received the last
instalment of the purchase-money; and having parted with such of his
household goods as would be unnecessary where he was going—save a few
dear old pieces of furniture, which they could not bear to give up—he
had nearly two thousand dollars to invest in lands.
With many tears they parted from one old friend and another, and
lingered affectionately around every familiar object, until no more
excuses could be framed for delay—and at length commenced their
journey. Emma would have given the world to have seen William Warden
once more; but he had left the village, and gone, no one knew whither.
Little George, notwithstanding his curiosity to see a prairie, had his
sorrows too, and wept as though his heart would break. The infant was
the only one who had no regrets for their old home.