Mrs. Linyard wept bitterly as she knelt beside the form of her sick brother. Yet she was thankful that he had been found, and her gratitude to Richard was outspoken and genuine.
It was decided that the sick man should be at once removed to one of the private wards of a neighboring hospital, where Mrs. Linyard might see him daily; and then have him taken to her own home as soon as it was deemed safe to do so.
Frank, who was somewhat acquainted with the methods of procedure, accompanied the old sailor to the institution and helped him to make the necessary arrangements.
Half an hour later an ambulance drove into Frying Pan Court. Tom Clover was removed with the greatest of care, the garret room was locked up, and Pep, like one in a dream, went off with his newly-found uncle.
It was nearly sundown when the two boys reached the Massanets' again.
"How long you've been!" exclaimed Mattie, who let them in.
"And we've had quite an adventure," replied her brother.
"Ees zat so?" put in Mrs. Massanet. "You must tell ett, Francois."
"I will, mother," replied Frank. "But Richard will have to help; it's really his story."
"Then both go ahead," cried Mattie. "Only do go ahead. I am dying to hear!"