I shall go up straight from Buenos Ayres to New
Orleans, and a steamer will take me up the river in three days to
Rube's location. Good-by, all of you. I told your father this
afternoon."
There was a hearty leave-taking, and many expressions of regret at
his leaving; and after a shake of the hand, and many good wishes,
the young Hardys went up to the house, really sorry to part with
their Yankee friend.
CHAPTER VIII.
FARM WORK AND AMUSEMENTS.
Although but two months had elapsed since the ground was plowed up
and planted, the progress made by the crop of maize and pumpkins
was surprising: the former, especially, was now nearly six feet
high. This rapid growth was the result of the extreme fertility of
the virgin soil, aided by the late abundant supply of water, and
the heat of the sun. The maize had given them all a great deal to
do; for when it was about six inches high it had to be thinned out
so that the plants were nine or ten inches apart. This had been
done by the united strength of the party, Mr. Hardy and the boys
working for two hours each morning, and as much in the evening. The
girls also had assisted, and the peons had worked the whole day,
except from eleven to three, when the heat was too great even for
them.
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