Chapter Nine.
Doctor Joe.
“Oh, dear! Oh, dear! What a life! what a state of misery to be in!”
“Shall I turn the pillow over, father?” said Joe to Major Jollivet, who was lying on the couch drawn before the window, so that he could have a good view of the sea.
“No,” shouted the Major, whose face was contracted by pain; and he shivered as he spoke although his forehead was covered with perspiration. “Why do you want to worry me by turning the pillow?”
“Because it will be nice and cool on the other side.”
“Get out. Be off with you directly, sir. Can’t you see I’m shivering with cold? Oh, dear: who would have jungle fever?”
“I wouldn’t father,” said the boy; and in spite of the words just spoken, he softly thrust his arm under his father’s neck, raised his head, and then turned and punched the pillow, smoothed it, and let the Major’s head down again.