"Have you seen Mr. Crawson? I never saw a man so changed. I am told he has not once left home or allowed his son to step over the threshold since the sad accident. He considers himself pledged to you not to let his son escape whatever the consequences may be."
"I remember nothing of that," remarked Mr. Dodge. "I sincerely pity him."
Not more than an hour later there was another call to Mr. Dodge from the bedside of his sick, perhaps dying child.
It was Mr. Crawson, haggard, pale and hollow-eyed.
"I can't stand it any longer," he exclaimed. "I want to know what you intend to do to my son."
"I don't understand you, neighbor."
"I mean in case of the worst. I know I ought not to come to you in your trouble; but I can't eat nor sleep till it's decided."
"Do you mean in regard to Daniel who struck the blow by which my son was injured?"
"Yes."
"Does he seem penitent?"