But little Hearn made a move then, and opened his eyes. Presently he sat up, putting his hands to his head. Tod was as tender with him as a mother.
“How do you feel, Archie?”
“Oh, I’m all right, I think. A bit giddy.”
Getting on to his feet, he looked from me to Tod in a bewildered manner. I thought it odd. He said he wouldn’t join the game again, but go in and rest. Tod went with him, ordering me to keep with the players. Hearn walked all right, and did not seem to be much the worse for it.
“What’s the matter now?” asked Mrs. Hall, in her cranky way; for she happened to be in the yard when they entered, Tod marshalling little Hearn by the arm.
“He has had a blow at football,” answered Tod. “Here”—indicating the place he had shown me.
“A kick, I suppose you mean,” said Mother Hall.
“Yes, if you like to call it so. It was a blow with a foot.”
“Did you do it, Master Todhetley?”
“No, I did not,” retorted Tod.