He left Farrington standing in the door and proceeded
with Tony up the road. As they moved along he noticed how his companion
lagged behind. Usually he was such a rapid walker, and this slowness was a
surprise to Stephen.
"Are you not well, Tony?" he asked.
"I'm all right," was the reply. "I've had a long walk to-day."
"Since when?"
"Daybreak."
"And did you rest?"
"No."
"Look here," and Stephen faced sharply about "Have you had anything to eat
to-day?"
Tony's face flushed, and he gave a slight, evasive laugh. But Stephen was
not to be put off.
"No, that won't do. I want to know. Have you been walking all day without
any food?"
"Oh, I didn't mind, Steve. I was in a hurry to get home. Besides I--"
"Yes, I know," interrupted Stephen. "You didn't have your pay, and were
too proud to beg. Oh, you're a great one. But you shall have supper with
me at once before you go digging among those ashes."
For a while Tony was stubborn, but in the end Stephen led him off in
triumph. Supper was ready, and Mrs. Frenelle gave the visitor a hearty
welcome, and in his own quaint way he told of his work in the woods, and
his experience on the drive.
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