A sense of responsibility came upon the boy as he sat there.
What if this young wretch should be cruel enough to poison the chickens, or the three pigs that were expected to help carry the family over the winter?
The thought gave him a bad feeling, and almost unconsciously he reached out his hand and picked up the gun that Joe had purchased with money earned through the sale of roots dug in the woods or furs secured through clever deadfalls.
There were a few shells in the box, and among others, several containing very small shot, that might sting pretty lively, but could not do much damage to a half-grown boy as tough as Jim Dilks.
And it was with that same individual in his mind that Darry pushed two of these small bird shells into the barrels of the gun.
He did not know that he would care to send even this charge directly at a human being; but in case it became necessary he wanted to make certain he would do little harm.
After that he seemed to feel easier in his mind, for he lay down and was soon fast asleep.
Something awoke him about midnight, and thinking he had heard a sound he sat up to listen; then he heard it again, and felt sure it must be a cough, as of some one partly choking.
He was worried and left his lowly bed to go to the door connecting the rooms and listen, but nothing came from beyond.
Could the sound come from outside?