“Billy, where's the minister?” For Billy have never left his idol's side except when Aunt Saxon needed him to help.
“Oh, he's up to tha parsonage,” responded Billy carelessly.
“But why hasn't he been to see me, Kid?”
“Why—he—hasn't been feelin' very good.” Billy's voice was brisk as if it wasn't a matter of much moment.
Mark turned his thoughtful gray eyes steadily on Billy:
“Now, look here, Kid, I'm well, and there's no further need to camouflage. Billy, is the minister dead?”
“Not on yer tin type, he ain't dead!”
“Well, is he hurt?”
“Well, some,” Billy admitted cheerfully.
“Kid, look me in the eye.”