How did you hear?'
'Bear picked it up. I say, wasn't that little beggar to have gone to
Stoneborough?'
'Not possible, Lance, I've gone into it with Wilmet. She is in
trouble about household expenses, as it is; and with this rival paper
on our hands, I can't undertake anything extra. Has he been bothering
you? I'm very sorry, but we must keep him here.'
Lance shut his eyes without reply; but no sooner was he left alone
than he rolled over, gave vent to a heavy groan from the bottom of
his heart, and clenched his hands as he lay. Then followed some heavy
sobs, and a few great tears; but gradually a look of purpose and hope
came over his face, and he slept. He was lying between sleeping and
waking, when a quiet step and cautious knock made him call out, 'Come
in, Jack.'
'Your sister wants to know if you are better, and ready for some
tea.'
'Thank you, I'm mending. Is Wilmet come home?'
'Yes, but only to become the prey of an ancient female.'
'Mrs. Bisset! Come to inspect you!'
'She won't, then! Shall I get you some tea?'
'No, thank you. But, I say, Jack, do you see my big box that we
brought home yesterday? Would you just dig into it for me?'
John Harewood applied himself to disentangle a frightful knot,
observing, 'This looks like Bill's handiwork.
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