"It costs a sight to live. He eats a good deal," indicating Tony.
"He's a growing boy; but he's worth all he costs you. You'd better ask him to stay with you a few weeks, till your strength is entirely recovered."
"No, no; I can't afford it," said Ben, hastily. "He's a good boy; but he's very hearty—very hearty."
Tony laughed.
"Don't vex him, doctor," said our hero. "I'm tired of staying here. I want to get out on the road again. There isn't much fun in staying shut up here."
Ben looked relieved. He had feared that Tony would be reluctant to go.
"Right, boy," he said, "you're right. It's a dull place. You'll be better off to go."
"You have been lucky to have him here during your sickness," said the doctor. "Without his care, or that of some one else, you would probably have died."
"But I won't die now?" asked old Ben, anxiously, peering up into the doctor's face.