"I know, I know; that was it."
A sudden, comprehensive light broke across Theodore's mind, and he felt a sharp pang of regret that his stepbrother was not like other boys. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he took one of the little invalid's hands in his strong, brown fingers, and there was a silence for a while, broken at length by Jack.
"How good you are to me, Theo. You always understand."
"No, I don't, old fellow."
"Oh, I think you do! Don't think me very selfish, Theo. Do you think it is wrong to wish to be like you—strong and well?"
"It is hard for you, Jack. I wish—I wish; I know!" with a quick, excited change of manner.
"What is it, Theo?"
"It's a secret. No, I can't tell you. No, I've only just thought of it."
Theodore's face was radiant with a bright idea; but he checked his excitement.
"Don't be lonely any more, Jack. I'm here, and I'll stay with you as long as you like. Do you feel at all sleepy?"