Pausing at the window, they saw the man still reclining upon his cot, and holding in his left hand a book—one of Patsy's, the Major observed—which he was quietly engaged in reading. Then they moved around to the door, which Uncle John pushed open.
Without hesitation, the two men entered and stood gazing down upon the strange occupant of the place.
"Good morning," said Mr. Merrick, while the Major nodded a greeting.
The man half arose, moving stiffly.
"Pardon me, sirs," he said, rather startled at the interruption; "I regret that I am physically unable to receive you with more courtesy."
The Major gazed into the partially bandaged face with a glimmer of awakening recognition.
"H-m! Ha! If I'm not mistaken," said he, "it's Joseph Wegg."
"Oh; is it?" asked Uncle John, looking upon the young man curiously.
"What's happened to you, Joseph?"
"Just an automobile accident, sir. The steering gear broke, and we went over an embankment."
"I see."