“A—a little,” acknowledged Ben reluctantly. “I wish I wasn’t. It costs so much to live.”
“I don’t think it costs you much,” said Tony. “This morning I’m going to give you a boiled egg.”
“I can’t afford it,” groaned the old man.
You may as well eat it, as it’s here.”
“How much did you pay?”
“Three cents for two.”
Ben groaned again, but when breakfast was ready he showed an unusually good appetite, and did not refrain from partaking of the egg, expensive as it was.
Dr. Compton came in the next morning, and pronounced the old man better and stronger.
Shall I be able to get up soon, doctor?” asked Ben.
In a day or two, I think.”