"I don't want to disappoint anybody," said Collie.
"Well, you will if you don't get better right away, sir! I wish I could do something to help. I can only sympathize and encourage the doctor."
"I know he's doing a whole lot for me. I think mebby you could help—a little—if you wanted to."
"Gracious! As though I didn't! Why didn't you tell me sooner?"
"It only came yesterday," said Collie, tremulously drawing the gauntlet from beneath his pillow.
Anne Marshall gazed at the soiled and wrinkled glove with unenlightened eyes. Then her quick smile flashed. "Oh! Now I know! So that is the talisman? Came yesterday? No wonder you seem brighter."
Collie's answering smile was irresistible. "It isn't just the glove—but would you—I mean, if you was like me—without being educated or anything—" He hesitated, breathing deeply.
But Anne Marshall understood him instantly, and answered his shyly questioning eyes.
"Indeed, I should. If I had half your chance, I shouldn't waste a minute in claiming the mate to that glove. One glove is of absolutely no use, you know."
"This one was—pretty much," sighed Collie. "I was feeling like letting go inside and not trying to—to stay any longer, just before it came."