"Yes, dear; your father is coming up."
The boy came forward to help, but his mother whispered, "He'd rather come up by himself."
William had just strength to walk into the room; they gave him a chair, and he fell back exhausted. He looked around, and seemed pleased to see his home again. Esther gave him some milk, into which she had put a little brandy, and he gradually revived.
"Come this way, Jack; I want to look at you; come into the light where I can see you."
"Yes, father."
"I haven't long to see you, Jack. I wanted to be with you and your mother in our own home. I can talk a little now: I may not be able to to-morrow."
"Yes, father."
"I want you to promise me, Jack, that you'll never have nothing to do with racing and betting. It hasn't brought me or your mother any luck."
"Very well, father."
"You promise me, Jack. Give me your hand. You promise me that, Jack."