The simple expression of the thought that was aching in the minds of all of them seemed to give a sort of relief. Nettie submitted to be caressed and soothed, and the boys came a little closer, and gave themselves the comfort of looking as wretched as they felt.
“Now I must eat some supper, for I dare not stay,” said Alvar; “and you—you have been travelling—come and take some.”
The poor boys began to find out how hungry they were, and Bob began to eat heartily; while the force of example made Jack take a few mouthfuls, till the vicar came into the room.
“Jack,” he said quietly, “Cherry is so very anxious to see you that Mr Adamson gives leave for you to go for one moment. Not the twins—they must wait a little. Can you stand it?”
“Yes, sir,” said Jack, though, great strong fellow as he was, his knees trembled.
“Then, Alvar, are you ready? Have you really eaten and rested? You had better take him in.”
Jack stood for a moment beside the bed, without attempting a word, hardly able to see that Cherry smiled at him, till he felt the hot fingers clasp his with more strength than he had looked for, and his hand was put into Alvar’s, while Cheriton held them both, and whispered, “Jack, you will—”
“Yes, Cherry, I will,” said Jack, understanding him. “I will, always.”
“There, that must be enough,” said Alvar. “Jack is very good—he shall come again.”
“Oh! don’t send me quite away,” whispered Jack, as they moved a little. “Let me stay outside. I could go errands—I’ll not stir.”