| In all his fascination with the truck, Henry forgot about his sadness
for just a minute. But the sound of the engine starting up jolted him back
to reality.
"Will I ever see you again, Ingrid?" he asked, holding back his tears.
"Believe in the Rescue Dust, Henry." she told him. "It will
take you to the place you need to be next." In her heart she was
hoping they would see each other again, but both of them knew 1000 miles
was a very long way. She promised she would write and that she would
even send him PRESENTS. Henry wished he didn't have to leave.
"Please say good-bye to Dallas, and Sara Catherine and all the others
for me," Henry said, trying to sound brave.
Inside he did not feel brave at all. His stomach felt in knots
and his legs were shaking. Henry didn't have to pack for the trip because
the only thing he owned in the whole wide world was the red, white and
blue bandana that Ingrid had lovingly given to him.
"C'mon Little Fella," Don said in a reassuring voice. "All of life
is an adventure. You've made it this far... let's see what's in store
for you."
|
 |
For five days they traveled the long journey to Massachusetts.
Henry watched Don drive, carefully taking note of which pedals he stepped
on and what he did with the steering wheel. He was especially fascinated
watching a big strong man like Don obey a little traffic light, just because
it turned red.
"I think I am on to something here," thought Henry. "Uprights
are trained to obey lights!"
They listened to music, talked and pulled over to sleep when they
were tired. And when they were hungry, they drove the big truck right up
to get hamburgers! Henry thought hamburgers were the most delicious
thing he had ever tasted.
When Don and Henry arrived in Massachusetts, they had driven 1000
miles together. Don got tears in his eyes just like Ingrid had when
she said good-bye. Henry knew it was time to leave his newest friend
as well. |
