"You can't to-night. Twon't be long till morning. Wait, and I will go with you."
After a little reflection the young engineer consented to this plan, but he found it impossible to sleep for some time in his damp clothing.
The peddler walked into the shadows, and August saw no more of him until the dawn of day, when Tige uttered a glad bark and darted into the bushes to greet his returning master.
August sat up, yet damp and uncomfortable, with an intense, burning fever in his veins.
"How far is it to the city?" he questioned.
"Four miles."
The young man staggered to his feet, but sank as quickly.
"You are ill, young feller?"
"I—I fear so," groaned August. "I don't believe it will be possible for me to walk home."
"Of course it won't."