Pop arose with a very full heart. He gave Speedy full credit for saving the Crosstown Railways from the forces of evil. He told the story of the boy from the time he had been left in Pop's charge by the elder Swift. At the mention of his father's name, a cloud for the first time that evening passed over Speedy's happy face. If only his father were there to share his triumph!
"Speedy was always a good boy," concluded Pop. "A little wild at times maybe. People said he wasn't steady. He had a lot of jobs and lost them so quickly that I don't believe he could remember them all himself. But folks didn't understand him. He was too full of life for them. But he's proved himself in the last few days. He's shown more good sense and ability than any boy of his age that I ever knew."
Pop glanced mischievously from Speedy to Jane. He had reserved an announcement for his climax that he knew would be a surprise even to them. But he didn't think they would mind.
"I haven't asked their permission," twinkled Pop, "but I guess now I can announce it: My granddaughter Jane and Speedy are engaged to be married, and I wouldn't want a better grandson-in-law."
Speedy and Jane were both startled. The whole banquet arose to its feet and cheered and drank the health of the newly engaged couple in ginger ale. Speedy took Jane's hand and squeezed it. He glanced at her pleadingly, asking her to confirm Pop's rather premature statement. She nodded "Yes," blushing.
