In reply to Carrots's questions, he represented himself as being comparatively comfortable, and stated that, although the time had seemed long, he was more than glad to be there, rather than on the streets enduring such suffering as must necessarily be his while moving around.
The first duty of the evening was to count the money, and it was learned that they had earned one dollar and twenty-six cents, exclusive of the amount spent for food procured on their way home.
"That makes us pretty nigh five dollars," Teddy said, as he placed these profits with the others. "If nothin' happens it won't be so very long before we'll be in great shape for doin' business."
Again Carrots had visions of the green news-stand and brass-covered bootblacking outfit, and from this reverie he was awakened when Teddy prepared the evening meal by unwrapping the papers in which the food had been brought.
This reminded Carrots of the scheme formed for the benefit of the invalid, and he handed the sheep's tongues to Ikey, as he said:
"There, old man, I want you to fill yourself right up on that, 'cause Miss Carter said they was awful good for sick people, an' I 'low they'll straighten you out in pretty nigh less'n no time!"
Then Carrots explained what they intended to do in regard to securing a doctor, and Ikey's eyes glistened as he thought of getting relief from his sufferings, which must have been great, judging from the expression he constantly wore.
"I'm 'fraid you can't do much," he said, with a sigh.
"It won't do any harm to try," Carrots replied, as he began to satisfy his own hunger; and when the meal was brought to a close, owing to the fact that neither of the partners could eat any more, Teddy led the way to the street again, the invalid expressing his earnest hope that the doctor might accede to their wishes.
Fortunately for their purpose, upon arriving at the doctor's office, they found him at home and not busy.