Ben heaved a sigh of relief.
I’m glad of it,” he said. “I can’t afford to be sick.”
“Has it cost you much?” asked the doctor, amused.
It costs a sight to live. He eats a good deal.”
“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.”
“No, no; I can’t afford it,” said Ben hastily. “He’s a good boy; but he’s very hearty—very hearty.”
“Don’t vex him, doctor,” said our hero. “I’m tired of staying here. I want to get out on the road again.”
Ben looked relieved.
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.”