Overcome with utter exhaustion, he sobbed hysterically, grasping the iron railing at his side. In a moment he got the better of himself and brushed the tears hastily away. Then a hand was laid upon his shoulder and he turned to see Ellen, her own eyes moist, and her face pale, looking up at him.
"Ellen!"
"Dick!"
That was all. At the end of the block the hospital corps with their stretchers were just passing out of sight. Steadman stood on the steps, leaning against the doorway. He grinned in a sheepishly good-natured manner at Ralston.
"Well, I found him!" the latter managed to announce in a fairly natural tone.
"So I see," answered Ellen, "and ready to report for duty."
"Well, I guess I'll say good-by," said Ralston awkwardly. "You people can have the cab as long as the horse lasts."
"No, you don't," said Steadman. "Remember you've agreed to put me at the head of my company. You haven't done it yet! Has he, Ellen?"
"No, we intend to take you with us to the ferry," she answered with a smile.
The word "we" sent a pang through Ralston's tired heart, and for an instant the sunlight paled before his eyes.