We haven't
been watchful enough of his health; that's what's the matter with
him and makes him so nervous."
Thus she continued, and, as she talked on, Mr. Schofield began,
by imperceptible processes, to adopt her views. As for Mrs.
Schofield herself, these views became substantial by becoming
vocal. This is to say, with all deference, that as soon as she
heard herself stating them she was convinced that they accurately
represented facts. And the determined look in her eyes deepened
when the "deepoe hack" turned the familiar corner and she saw
Penrod running to the gate, followed by Duke.
Never had Penrod been so glad to greet his mother. Never was he
more boisterous in the expression of happiness of that kind. And
the tokens of his appetite at dinner, a little later, were
extraordinary. Mr. Schofield began to feel reassured in spite of
himself; but Mrs. Schofield shook her head.
"Don't you see? It's abnormal!" she said, in a low, decisive
voice.
That night Penrod awoke from a sweet, conscienceless slumber--or,
rather, he was awakened. A wrappered form lurked over him in the
gloom.
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