“The boy is tired out,” he said. “That is all. His strength has been exhausted by too severe physical effort.”
“What shall we do to bring him round?” asked his sister.
“Rest and nourishing food are all that is required.”
“Shall we keep him here? Have you any objection?”
“I should object to letting him go in his present condition. He will be a care to you, Emily.”
“I shall not mind that. We shall have to keep the other boy, too.”
“Certainly. There's room enough for both.”
When Abner was told that for a week to come they were to stay in Dr. Stone's comfortable house, his face indicated his satisfaction.
“Ef you've got any chores to do, ma'am,” he said, “I'll do 'em. I'm strong, and not afraid to work.”
“Then I will make you very useful,” said Miss Stone, smiling.