'You are
well taken care of, I am sure.'
'Yes, I am well taken care of--very well taken care of. How long is it,
I wonder--how many weeks, or months, or years, since they have taken
care of me? It seems a long, long time; but it is all like a dream--a
long dream. Once I used to try and wake myself. I used to try and
struggle out of that weary dream. But that was ages ago. I am satisfied
now--I am quite content now--so long as the weather is warm, and I can
sit out here in the sun.'
'It is growing chilly now,' said Mary, 'and I think you ought to go
indoors. I know that I must go.'
'Yes, I must go in now--I am getting shivery,' answered the old man,
meekly. 'But I want to see you again, Mary--I like your face--and I like
your voice. It strikes a chord here,' touching his breast, 'which has
long been silent. Let me see you again, child. When can I see you
again?'
'Do you sit here every afternoon when it is fine?'
'Yes, every day--all day long sometimes when the sun is warm.'
'Then I will come here to see you.'
'You must keep it a secret, then,' said the old man, with a crafty look.
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