Mr.
Graham further insisted on his taking a lad to show him the right
path through the fir woods; and though Johnny looked more formed for
strength than speed, and was pale-cheeked and purple-eyed with broken
rest, the manner in which he set forth had a purpose-like air that
was satisfactory-—not over swift at the outset over the difficult
ground, but with a steadfast resolution, and with a balance and
knowledge of the management of his limbs due to Eton athletics.
Mr. Graham went up to encourage Mrs. Brownlow. She clasped her hands
together with joy and gratitude.
"That dear, dear boy," she said, "I shall owe him everything."
Jock had wakened rational, though only to be conscious of severe
suffering. He would hardly believe that Armine was really alive till
Mr. Graham actually carried in the boy, and let them hold each
other's hands for a moment before placing Armine on the other bed.
Indeed it seemed that this might be the poor boys' last meeting.
Armine could only look at his brother, since the least attempt to
speak increased the agonised struggle for breath, which, doctor or no
doctor, gave Mr. Graham small expectation that he could survive
another of these cold mountain nights.
Their mother was so far relieved to have them together that it was
easier to attend to them; and Armine's patient eyes certainly acted
as a gentle restraint upon Jock's moans, lamentations, and
requisitions for her services.
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