Charlie wanted to see the vine recognized. He stepped backward to the window with a broad smile, shook the foliage, nodded and looked smart.
"I know," said the Colonel, with beaming eyes,"—many weeks."
The next day—
"Charl—"
The best ear went down.
"Send for a priest."
The priest came, and was alone with him a whole afternoon. When he left, the patient was very haggard and exhausted, but smiled and would not suffer the crucifix to be removed from his breast.
One more morning came. Just before dawn Charlie, lying on a pallet in the room, thought he was called, and came to the bedside.
"Old man," whispered the failing invalid, "is it caving yet?"
Charlie nodded.