The man puffed and blew before making reply.
"Mile from the court house, ever'body says. I b'lieve it's a mile and a quarter. Seems like three or four tonight!"
He dashed the perspiration from his eyes, and settled to his work afresh. John looked at him again, and in the dim starlight, to which his eyes had become accustomed, he saw that the man was young and soft. His hands showed white, his face was purple from exertion, and his breathing was stertorous.
"Pretty tough on a fellow who stays indoors, isn't it?" queried Glenning, pleasantly.
"You—bet! Stranger, ain't you?"
"Just came on the train tonight."
"You must be—mightily interested—in these people!"
"I'm going to make this place my home."
"Uh-huh. I know you—now. You're the—new doctor!"
"Yes. My name's John Glenning."