“Is he worse, sir?” inquired Walter. King was too anxious to speak.
“I am afraid he is,” replied Mr. Cottenham shortly. “Come again after dinner and I will let you know any further news of him.”
As Mr. Cottenham had said, Cox was sufficiently well in two days to be removed to his own home. The strain on Alfred’s system, added to the blow on his head, caused a dangerous illness; but, thanks to his youth and naturally good constitution, assisted by the close attention of a kind nurse and skilful doctor, he did recover. His mother had come, and soon afterwards his father also arrived, and when Alfred was out of danger, his joy may readily be imagined at seeing both of his parents at his bedside. Later in the day his sister came, and his good friend Mr. Cottenham.
As he got better, the doctor said that he might, in a few days, be removed to his home for a change.
“Alfie,” said his mother, “we have a lot of good news for you. Your father has been appointed to a good position at Eastport, so that he will not be obliged to go any more voyages; and the directors have given him a hundred pounds for his services in that great storm.”
“Mother, I am so happy now!” he exclaimed. “I should like to see Mr. Cottenham again. I have never thanked him for saving my life. If he had not come, I am sure I could not have held on any longer.”
When Alfred returned to the school after his holiday at home, he was told to come at five o’clock, after the service, to the cathedral library. No one had said a word to him of what was intended, and great was his surprise when he saw the large room crowded with people. Walter and Steve took charge of him. All the choir were there, and the clergy as well. Mr. Cottenham occupied a place on the platform, and the dean delivered a short address on the gallant rescue of a school-fellow by Alfred Davidson.
“Alfred,” said Walter, “you have to go up and receive a medal. The dean has called out your name.”