"He is better now, and the doctor says it is only overexertion in the hot sun and perhaps a little worry with it," and she led the way to his room.
"I am so glad," Lily was saying with her arms about his neck as they entered. "We will not go out again until it is cooler!"
"But—" He saw Mrs. Hamilton and reached out his hand.
"Here is my husband, Willie, who has learned your worth before seeing you."
"A dull scholar I should be certainly if I had not."
"And you find me only a poor cripple who is obliged to creep through the dust just like any other worm!" He tried to smile but it proved a failure.
"No, my boy; not through the 'dust' just now, but into my heart, where, thank God, there is plenty of room for you!"
The physician, who had stepped out as they entered now returned, and walking up to the bed said, kindly: "You are all right now, Willie, but you must be a little careful of yourself for a few days and keep in the shade." And then he went away.
"You will stay to dinner?" pleaded Mrs. Hopkins; "I have nothing very nice to give you."
"Shall we, darling?" This to his daughter.