Ferdinand and Gustavus
pranced carefully sideways to a higher step. The Prophet followed
solicitously behind, with hands outstretched to check any dangerous
recoil. His face was very grave, but not entirely unhappy.
"Set me down by the fire," said Mrs. Merillia, when she found herself
being smoothly propelled through the atmosphere of the drawing-room.
The menials obeyed with breathless assiduity.
"And now bring me a sandwich, a glass of toast and water and a fan, if
you please. Yes, put the footstool well under me."
"Dearest grannie," said the Prophet, when the men had retired, "are you
in great pain?"
"No, Hennessey. Are you?"
Mrs. Merillia's green eyes twinkled.
"I!"
"Yes, at my accident. For my ankle is sprained, I'm almost sure, and I
shall have to lie up presently in wet bandages. Tell me, are you really
pained that I have had the accident you prophesied?"
She glanced from her grandson to the telescope that pointed toward the
stars and back again.
"I am, indeed, sincerely grieved," the Prophet answered with genuine
emotion.
"Yes. But if I'd jumped out all right, and was sittin' here now in a
perfect condition of health, you'd have been sincerely grieved, too.
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