“Yes, indeed it is,” replied Tom; “yes, indeed!”
“I have learned, also, that there is a possibility of cure, if the eyes are subjected to proper and timely treatment.”
“Yes, that’s what a doctor told us.”
“What a blessing it would be if sight could be restored to him! what a delight! What rejoicing there would be in your little household, would there not?”
“Oh, indeed there would!” cried Tom, “oh, indeed! It’s what we’re a-thinkin’ of al’ays; it’s what I pray for every night, sir. We’ve been a-tryin’ to save money enough to do it, but it’s slow a-gettin’ it, it’s awful slow.”
“A—how much”—Lawyer Pleadwell paused, and twirled his eye-glasses thoughtfully—“how much would it cost, Tom?”
“Only a hundred dollars, sir; that’s what the doctor said.”
Another pause; then, with great deliberation,—
“Tom, suppose my friend here should see fit to place in your hands, to-day, the sum of one hundred dollars, to be used in your brother’s behalf; could you return the favor by keeping to yourself the knowledge you possess concerning the origin of the fire at the breaker?”