The hospital was so crowded with patients from the wreck that even the office of the superintendent and some of the doctors’ rooms were used. On cots in them were men and women; some badly injured.
The aged man had a small room to himself, as his case was regarded as critical. Dr. Bounce, preceding the three boys, entered. He paused for a few seconds regarding the patient, who seemed to be sleeping. Then the physician turned, and silently beckoned the boys to approach. As they came near the old man opened his eyes and regarded them curiously for a moment.
“Are these the boys you wanted to see?” inquired Dr. Bounce.
“Yes, yes,” was the eager reply. The man tried to raise himself in bed, but was so weak he fell back on the pillow.
“Calm yourself,” said Dr. Bounce soothingly. “You must not get excited. What did you want of the boys?”
“I want Jess,” murmured the man, looking first at one of the boys, and then at the other. “I was on my way to get her, after long years of separation, when there came a terrible blow on my head.”
“But what have the boys to do with it, and who is Jess?” asked Dr. Bounce.
“They will find her for me. They know where she is. Where the great light is. They can find her. They are smart boys. I can see that.” Then his mind wandered. “I must have my Jess. Maybe she was killed in the wreck! Oh, boys, please find her for me! Perhaps she is pinned down under the seat where you rescued me!”
The chums looked at each other curiously. Dr. Bounce placed his hand on the old man’s pulse.