Everett T. Tomlinson

“ If anything happens, you 'll know what to do."
"Yes, Tom."
In a moment the door was again closed, and the man was gone. Robert waited where he was, feeling himself almost unable to move, and in a brief time he heard the sound of the men approaching. Once more he drew closer to the side of the house and threw himself at full length upon the ground, pressing against the wall in his eagerness to conceal his presence. The men, however, passed without perceiving him, doubtless so engrossed with their own purposes that they had no mind to be on the watch for other things at the moment. ”

“ He was trembling, for he was fully aware what her reply would mean to him.
"Poor boy!" said the woman at last, sympathetically. "Tom would never forgive me if he knew, but I cannot turn you away. It is n't safe for you to be here, though I don't think the men will come back before morning. You have been shot, you say. Let me help you. Where was it?"
Robert pointed to his shoulder, but could not trust himself to speak. The woman's kindness had touched him deeply, and in his wretchedness he felt that his chin was quivering. ”

“ Leaving him within, she returned to the house and soon came back, her arms laden with blankets, which she spread upon the floor, and made up a rude but not uncomfortable bed, upon which he at once placed himself.
"There!" she said, as she prepared to depart. "Don't you try to leave till I bring you word, and don't you be frightened if I don't come as often as you expect me. ”