"Says you're to go home, and report in morning."
"But I can't do that," demurred Ralph.
"Must--orders."
"It would worry my mother, she would think something serious was wrong with me, while I feel as well as I ever did in my life--yes, better, even," insisted Ralph.
"Well, you're not to work, boss says--you can loaf, if you like."
"That's something I don't fancy."
"Then watch me, and I'll show you some things."
"Good!" assented Ralph. "If they are bound to have me invalided, at least let me learn something in the meantime."
Limpy did not talk much, but after an hour of his company Ralph voted him a wonder.
There must be some vivid history back of the man, Ralph theorized, for there were sparkles of real genius here and there in his movements and explanations of the next two hours.