"My poor boy!" was all the Doctor said. "You have borne it like a
man! I am proud of you, Theo."
The words were few, but the praise was at that moment very precious.
His father sat with him the remainder of the day, as well as a good
part of the night, and during the wakeful hours when the boy tossed to
and fro he would have ventured to speak about staying in camp had not
Dr. Swift bidden him to be quiet every time he attempted to talk. The
next morning, however, after the invalid had been bathed and had his
breakfast the Doctor said of his own accord:
"So you think you would be happier to remain here in the woods, Theo,
instead of going home."
The lad glanced up in surprise.
"Did Mr. Croyden tell you that?"
Dr. Swift nodded.
"He said you'd like to stay," he returned quickly.
"I should, very much."
"Suppose we call it settled then, and say no more about it. I am sure
I have no wish to jolt you over those miles of rough corduroy road if
it can be avoided. You seem better this morning. Your fever has gone
down, and I see no reason why you should not get on all right from now
on."
Theo smiled; then he whispered timidly:
"I just want to tell you I'm sorry I disobeyed you, Father.
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