“Yes, he related everything to me, clearly,” replied the doctor gravely.
“Hah!” cried Wilton. “Poor fellow, he must have gone through a great deal. How did it all come to pass?”
“Give me time,” said the doctor thoughtfully. “I should like to lie down and sleep for a few hours, for I have gone through a good deal since you left us, Bourne. To-night we must lay him to rest. Afterwards I have a great deal that is very startling to tell you both—to tell you all, I should say, for the boys may hear.”
Chapter Five.
A Piece of Skin.
It was late that same evening when the occupants of the shanty sat about the rough board table. The stranger had been laid in his last resting-place, Mr Bourne had read the service over him, and the American neighbour, who had been present, had stayed to partake of the evening meal.
This latter had passed over almost in silence, all waiting then for the communication the doctor was to make; but he sat still, thoughtful and silent, till Griggs, after fidgeting a little in his chair, said—
“I can’t help feeling a bit sorry, doctor, for bringing the poor fellow over to you. I never meant him to stay.”