"Who have you got there, Michael?" asked Richard Hunter, turning round in surprise.
"A little match boy that was lyin' just outside the door. He looks as if he might be dead."
Richard jumped at once from his stool, and, approaching the boy, looked earnestly in his face.
"He has fainted away," he said, after a pause. "Bring some water, quick!"
Micky brought a glass of water, which was thrown in the face of Mark. The match boy gave a little shiver, and, opening his eyes, fixed them upon Richard Hunter.
"Where am I?" he asked, vacantly.
"You are with friends," said Richard, gently. "You were found at our door faint. Do you feel sick?"
"I feel weak," said Mark.
"Have you been well lately?"
"No, I've felt tired and weak."