s seemed anxious to have Andrews with him.
Andrews had talked very encouragingly to him, showed a good deal of
sympathy, and thus, they had became quite confidential friends. He,
therefore, assured Drysdale that he should be happy to give him as much
of his company, as possible, if it would afford Drysdale any pleasure.

"You are very kind, Mr. Andrews," said Drysdale; "you may think it
strange, but I feel a sense of relief, when I am with you, especially
lately. I wonder if I shall ever be better," he mused plaintively.

"Why, certainly; we hope for your speedy recovery," said Andrews,
cheerfully. "You let trivial matters prey on your mind, and you must
stop it, for your health will not stand it."

"Well, I shall try," responded Drysdale feebly.

One evening, Mrs. Drysdale was sitting at Mrs. Potter's side, waiting
for her husband's return. By this time, Mrs. Potter was able to sit up,
and even to move about the room somewhat.

"My husband is failing in health, I fear," said Mrs. Drysdale.

"I am afraid so, too," replied Mrs. Potter, "and I feel sorry to think
that I am a burden upon you at the same time; but, I hope to be well
soon, and then I will help you take care of him."

"You have been no burden, whatever, Mrs. Potter; on the contrary, your
company has been a great comfort to me. But, I was thinking, that if my
husband would try a change of air and life, it would be a great help to
him. I should miss him sadly, but I would make any sacrifice to see him
restored to health."

At the tea table Mrs. Drysdale said:

"I was just speaking to Mrs. Potter about your health, Aleck, and I
thought that if you would go away for a time, the change of scenery, and
habits of life, would be very advantageous. Why don't you go down to New
Orleans with Mr. Andrews? He is always talking of going there, but he is
too lazy to start. You could both enjoy yourselves very much, and I know
it would do you good. You would return as healthy and happy as you
always used to be."

"I have been thinking of going there, or to some other place," said
Drysdale, "but I can't leave just now. I think a trip would do me good,
and as soon as I feel able to do so, I will get Andrews to go with me."

Nothing of interest occurred for several days. Green kept a close watch
every night, but Drysdale did not appear. Andrews got Drysdale to go out
hunting with him twice, but each time, Drysdale succeeded in arriving at
home before dark. Green had