“I didn't mean to offend you, my dear Mrs. Barton,” said Ford, seeing that he had made a false step. “Tell me all you can, and I'll see if I can't get the boys back.”
“Now you're talkin',” said Mrs. Barton, smoothing her ruffled plumage. “Come into the house, and I'll tell you all I know.”
CHAPTER XXXV — HERBERT BREAKS DOWN
“I don't think I can walk any further, Abner. I feel sick,” faltered Herbert.
Abner, who had been walking briskly, turned round to look at his young companion. Herbert was looking very pale, and had to drag one foot after the other. Day after day he had tried to keep up with Abner, but his strength was far inferior to that of the other boy, and he had finally broken down.
“You do look sick, bub,” said Abner, struck by Herbert's pallid look. “Was I walking too fast for you?”
“I feel very weak,” said Herbert. “Would you mind stopping a little while? I should like to lie under a tree and rest.”
“All right, bub. There's a nice tree.” “Don't you feel tired, Abner?”
“No; I feel as strong as hearty as a horse.”